The Global Meeting of the Pathfinding Global Alliance on Ending Violence Against Children recently convened in Turin, Italy. The summit, held at the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC), brought together various stakeholders to address efforts aimed at eradicating child violence. This significant international gathering showed the urgent need for concerted global action to protect children from all forms of harm. The choice of the United Nations System Staff College as the venue noted the collaborative spirit and the emphasis on capacity building and knowledge sharing among participating nations and organizations.
National Protection Agenda
Sierra Leone reaffirmed its dedication to accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, specifically its target of ending all forms of violence against children by 2030. This commitment was articulated during the recent Global Meeting of the Pathfinding Global Alliance on Ending Violence Against Children in Turin, Italy. The West African nation noted its ongoing efforts to strengthen child protection mechanisms and ensure the safety and well-being of its youth. This renewed pledge from Sierra Leone shows its alignment with international initiatives aimed at safeguarding children from various forms of abuse and exploitation, including physical, emotional, and sexual violence, as well as neglect. Sierra Leone’s participation in the global summit emphasized its proactive stance in contributing to the worldwide agenda for child protection, showcasing its commitment on the international stage. The nation's representatives detailed the progress made domestically and outlined future strategies to achieve the ambitious 2030 target.
Minister's Global Address
The meeting in Turin, Italy, occurred from June 4 to 5, 2026. This two-day event provided a key platform for member states and partners to share best practices, discuss challenges, and renew their collective resolve. Sierra Leone's delegation was notably led by Dr. Isata Mahoi, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs. Her presence at the forefront of the delegation showed the high priority the Sierra Leonean government places on child protection issues and its commitment to international collaboration.
Minister Mahoi addressed the summit, emphasizing the collaborative nature required to combat child violence effectively. "No single institution can end violence against children alone," Dr. Mahoi stated, noting the complexity and widespread nature of the issue. She added that success in this endeavor "depends on strong partnerships, adequate resources, community engagement and a shared commitment to putting children at the centre of national development." Her remarks showed Sierra Leone's view on the necessity of a multifaceted approach involving various stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society organizations, local communities, and international partners, to achieve the goal of eradicating child violence. The Minister's speech resonated with the summit's overarching theme of collective responsibility and shared vision.
Call for Partnerships
During her address, Dr. Isata Mahoi articulated Sierra Leone's perspective on the collective effort required to combat child violence. She reiterated, "No single institution can end violence against children alone. Success depends on strong partnerships, adequate resources, community engagement and a shared commitment to putting children at the centre of national development." Her remarks showed the necessity of a multifaceted approach involving various stakeholders to achieve the goal of eradicating child violence. The Minister's intervention noted the country's call for strengthened collaboration, both domestically and internationally, to protect children from all forms of abuse and exploitation. She emphasized that a holistic approach, which integrates child protection into broader national development plans, is essential for sustainable change.
Future Commitments
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs reaffirmed its mission to build a safer, more inclusive, and protective society for Sierra Leonean children. The Ministry's stated aim is to ensure every child is given the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential, free from fear and violence. This commitment aligns with the nation's broader strategy to eliminate all forms of violence against children by 2030, a goal reiterated at the recent global summit. The Ministry continues to focus on strengthening child protection frameworks and fostering environments conducive to child development and well-being, recognizing that an investment in children is an investment in the nation's future. These efforts include policy implementation, awareness campaigns, and direct support services for vulnerable children.
