Speaking on World Children’s Day, Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella emphasized the need to listen to children, respect their experiences, and uphold their fundamental rights. He warned that millions of children across the globe are still exposed to violence, exploitation, and trafficking, and in some cases forced into becoming child soldiers.

Mattarella noted that while global crises and conflicts continue to grow, it is the youngest who bear the heaviest burden. Even within Italy, situations of neglect and marginalization persist. Many young people, he said, hide their fragility behind anger, silence, or an overreliance on technology, often without being truly understood.

A collective, daily effort is needed to restore trust, protection, and real opportunities for growth. “When a child suffers, the entire community fails,” Mattarella stated, adding that whenever a young person feels heard and respected, society finds in their voice a renewed sense of hope.