UNICEF Madame Chair, distinguished panelists, and participants. UNICEF welcomes this discussion on amplifying minority voice in peacebuilding, accountability, and transitional justice processes. Around the world, minority children are disproportionately affected by conflict, yet their contributions to peace are too often overlooked. Children, including those from minority and indigenous communities, have the right to participate in decisions that shape their lives. Their meaningful engagement in recovery, peace-building and accountability processes is essential for building sustainable peace. UNICEF’s experience demonstrates that when minority children are engaged as partners in peacebuilding processes, through consultations, dialogue platforms, and community-led initiatives, their sense of ownership grows, social cohesion is strengthened, and programs better reflect the realities of the most marginalized. Across many contexts, UNICEF has supported children to safely participate in transitional justice and accountability processes, contributing their perspectives to truth-seeking and community healing. UNICEF remains committed to supporting states to address the rights of minority children and ensuring that minority children are protected, heard, and empowered as transformative agents of change. UNICEF calls on states to fully embed children’s rights, to participate at the core of peace-building, accountability, and transitional justice efforts. Thank you.

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