Celebrating Children’s Rights: A Call to Action

20 Novembre 2025

Celebrating Children’s Rights: A Call to Action

November 20th is the International Day for Children’s Rights, an essential reminder: millions of children worldwide still see their fundamental rights denied, from education and healthcare to protection and safety. Talking about children’s rights is not rhetoric: every child has the right to grow up in a safe environment, to be loved, heard, and empowered to reach their full potential without fear. Defending these rights requires daily commitment, even through small actions that help build a fairer society.

Play as a Right: The Message from Brussels

This week, MEP Marion Walsmann hosted TIE: Toy Industries of Europe’s exhibition on the “Power of Play,” at the European Parliament highlighting the importance of play and the value of responsible play. Play is not merely a pastime: it is a fundamental right and a cornerstone of children’s emotional, cognitive, and social development. Through play, children learn empathy, develop problem-solving skills, practice compromise, and strengthen social bonds—all critical tools for life.

Associations such as Assogiocattoli and EBPC were present, represented respectively by Genesio Rocca and Gloria Veta.

One of the most urgent issues discussed concerned the arrival of non-compliant products on the European market: 86% of toys purchased on online marketplaces fail to meet EU safety standards. This alarming figure puts children’s protection and safety at serious risk.

As President of Assogiocattoli and Gemar, Genesio Rocca underlined that protecting children also involves the world of parties, play, and entertainment. He stressed that every moment of joy can carry an important message for a child — the idea that they matter, that they are unique, and that they deserve to feel happy.

In this perspective, Gemar focuses on ensuring that every balloon, decoration, and shared experience is not only beautiful but also safe, respectful, and responsibly made. The company’s use of natural latex instead of plastic reflects a commitment to lower environmental impact without affecting safety or quality.

Gloria Veta, President of EBPC and Global Brand and Sales Director of Gemar, highlighted that protecting children is a collective duty. Everyday choices — what we buy, support, and defend — shape the world in which children grow.

Investing in children’s rights builds a better future. Through play, safe products, and conscious decisions, children can develop empathy, collaboration, and resilience.