Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children

This grant represents Canada’s institutional support to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children (SRSG-VAC). The SRSG-VAC uses these funds along with other donors’ funding to achieve its mandate which derives from the conclusions of the 2006 UN Study on Violence Against Children. The SRSG is a global independent advocate in favour of the prevention and elimination of all forms of violence against children. The office mobilizes action and political support to maintain momentum around this agenda and generates renewed concern at the harmful effects of violence on children. The mandate of the SRSG is anchored in human rights promoting the universal ratification and effective implementation of core international conventions. The SRSG-VAC cooperates closely with human rights bodies and mechanisms with UN funds and programmes and specialized agencies and with regional organizations. She promotes cooperation with national institutions and civil society organizations including children and young people.

The expected accomplishments as stated by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children include: (1) promotion of the ratification and implementation of core child rights treaties; (2) policy dialogue to strengthen children's protection from violence; (3) increased awareness and consolidation of knowledge to accelerate progress in the prevention and elimination of violence against children; (4) maximized engagement with governments and regional institutions; (5) strengthened strategic alliances within and beyond the United Nations system including direct engagement with children; and (6) strengthened implementation of member states' commitments for children's protection from violence.