Minato City Declaration with Children at the Center Toward International City Where Every Child Can Truly Experience Happiness

1. We will realize a child abuse-free Minato City

Residents, relevant organizations, and the local community will work together to strengthen the systems for the prevention and early detection of child abuse, as well as the initiation of a prompt response to such abuse while enhancing community-based childrearing support in the continuous efforts toward achieving zero cases of child abuse.

2. We will realize a Minato City where every child is respected, and their safety and security are protected

We respect the differences, individuality and values of each child, regardless of nationality, cultural differences, family environment, or disability, and will protect children from all forms of discrimination, bullying, and violence.

3. We will realize a Minato City where each child's voice is heard and respected

By listening to the opinions and ideas of children and expanding opportunities for them to participate in diverse social activities, we will work together with children to promote municipal and community development policies that reflect the perspectives of children.

4. We will realize a Minato City where all children can grow up healthy

By enriching diverse learning and experiential opportunities appropriate for each child’s age and stage of development, we will create an environment where children can develop their abilities, make the most of their strengths to live their best lives now, and expand future possibilities.
Background to the Declaration of Children at the Center
Nationwide, the number of consultations on child abuse continues to increase, and Minato City is also experiencing an upward trend. We must protect children’s human rights and ensure the safety and security of our children.
Children are the hope of the future for the community and an irreplaceable treasure. All children have the right to grow up healthy, safe, and happy with respect for their differences, individuality and values.

In Minato City, an international city where many people come and go and diverse cultures coexist, our hope is that all children will have dreams and hopes for the future and live happy lives filled with smiles.
On September 1, the City issued the Declaration of Children at the Center to protect children’s human rights throughout society and to realize a Minato City as an international city where every child can truly feel safe, secure, and happy.
The Declaration of Children at the Center represents Minato City's strong commitment to creating a community where every child can truly experience happiness. Based on this declaration, we will work to create a Minato City that supports children not only throughout the city but throughout society as a whole.

Protecting Rights of the Child

The Convention on the Rights of the Child is an international treaty that makes it clear that children are not just "weak beings to be protected by adults," but are to be respected as individuals with rights, just like adults. This treaty outlines four principles that form the foundation of children's rights.

1. Non-discrimination

All children are to be equally valued and respected, without discrimination based on gender, disability, nationality, or family circumstances.

2. Best interests of the child

In all matters concerning children, the course of action that is in the best interests of the child should be chosen.

3. Right to life, survival and development

Children have the right to be protected, to grow up healthy, and to live in a safe environment through learning and playing.

4. Respect for the views of the child

Children have the right to freely express their thoughts and feelings, and their opinions must be given due respect.

 

Based on these four principles, it is essential to build a society where children can live safely and securely, and grow up healthy with dreams and hopes for the future. Let's reflect each child’s voice in community development. Together, as a united society, let's move forward in cooperation.