Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence against Children Visits Lesotho: A Catalyst for Change

From the 15th to the 17th of April 2024, Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence against Children, marked her first visit to Lesotho since the start of her appointment in 2019. This visit coincided with her attendance at the 43rd Ordinary Session of the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child held in Maseru. Dr. M’jid's schedule was packed with not only her participation in the conference but also several important bilateral meetings aimed at addressing critical issues facing children in Lesotho.

A Series of High-Profile Meetings

Dr. M’jid’s engagements in Lesotho brought her face-to-face with a number of the nation’s most influential figures. Among them were Her Majesty, Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso, Prime Minister Samuel Matekane, Dr. Ntoi Rapapa the Minister of Education, and Mpotjoane Lejone, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations. The United Nations Country Team in Lesotho, representatives from civil society organizations, and Dr. Mahlape Morai, the Acting  Commissioner of Police, also held discussions with Dr. M’jid.

The objective of these meetings was multifold: to raise awareness about the plight of children in Lesotho, to assess the progress and challenges in safeguarding children's rights, and to catalyze action across all sectors of society.

Dr. M’jid commended Lesotho for its investments in education, acknowledging the steps the country has taken towards improving the lives of its youngest citizens. However, she also pointed out that despite these efforts, significant challenges remain. Issues such as child labor, child marriage, and violence against children persist. 

The discussions revealed a pressing need for the acceleration of laws and policies aimed at protecting children. Dr. M’jid emphasized, “In my engagements with the various stakeholders who work on children’s issues in Lesotho, I can say that there is progress, however, there are still many challenges. We need to work to ensure sustainable access for all children.”

Recognizing the complexities of the issues at hand, Dr. M’jid advocated for practical, sustainable solutions. She highlighted the essential role of establishing a human rights commission aligned with the Paris Principles to guarantee the rights' enjoyment for everyone, particularly children. She pointed out the imperative of incorporating children in decision-making, financial, and development strategies that prioritize the safeguarding of children's rights as a foundation for their genuine rights enjoyment and protection. According to Dr. M’jid, children are not just beneficiaries but are part of the solution to the challenges they face such as violence and the negative influence of gang culture.

Moving Forward: A Unified Approach

The visit by Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid to Lesotho represents a pivotal moment in the country's ongoing efforts to protect and promote the rights of children. It highlights the international community's commitment to supporting Lesotho in its endeavors but also underlines the intrinsic challenges that remain.

The government of Lesotho and stakeholders are now faced with the task of translating the discussions and recommendations from these meetings into tangible actions. This entails not only speeding up the implementation of protective laws and policies but also fostering an environment where children's voices are heard and considered in the formulation of those policies.

Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid's visit to Lesotho serves as a catalyst for change, offering a unique opportunity to reinvigorate efforts to protect the country's most vulnerable population. By commending the progress already made and highlighting the areas that need further attention, Dr. M’jid has advocated for collective action.

 The ultimate goal is clear: to ensure that every child in Lesotho can grow up in a safe, supportive environment that nurtures their development and upholds their rights. As Lesotho moves forward, the hope is that this visit will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the country's commitment to its children, one characterized by renewed vision and collaborative effort towards lasting change.