Children Share Their Stories of Disaster and War on World Children's Day in the Canary Islands
An event in the Canary Islands on World Children's Day highlights children’s experiences of natural disasters and war, featuring testimonies from affected youth and recognizing research on childhood issues.
- • The event is held at the Museum of Science and Cosmos in La Laguna to honor World Children's Day.
- • Children affected by the Tajogaite volcano and Ukrainian refugees will share their experiences.
- • Officials emphasize the importance of children's participation in discussions on disasters and rights.
- • The María José Rodríguez López Awards recognize research related to childhood and adolescence.
Key details
On November 21, the Museum of Science and Cosmos in La Laguna will host a notable event organized by the Canary Islands' Ministry of Social Welfare to mark World Children's Day. The event seeks to amplify the voices of children affected by various crises, including natural disasters and war. Among the participants are four children from La Palma who experienced the Tajogaite volcano eruption, two Ukrainian refugee siblings living in Fuerteventura, and an unaccompanied minor from Gran Canaria.
Key figures such as Candelaria Delgado, the Minister of Social Welfare, and Sandra Rodríguez, the Director General for the Protection of Childhood and Families, will attend the event. A central feature will be video testimonies from three children under care, highlighting their experiences, challenges, and resilience. Discussions will focus on the impacts of natural disasters and conflict on children, along with issues related to the rights and participation of migrant children.
Additionally, an artistic mural by Carla Andreína León and a narrative presentation by theater director Juan Reyes will cap the gathering. The day before, the University of La Laguna will award the second María José Rodríguez López Awards, acknowledging outstanding research and academic initiatives related to childhood and adolescence. This event underscores the importance of including children's perspectives in addressing social challenges and promoting their rights, as emphasized by the involved officials.
This initiative highlights a committed approach to acknowledging children's experiences in crises and fostering their active role in shaping their futures in the Canary Islands.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.