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Hong Kong, 11 September 2024— Here at Hong Kong Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF HK), we empower local youth to explore the world and advocate for children’s rights. UNICEF’s Child-Friendly Cities Initiative has been implemented in over 3,000 cities across 40 countries. To learn about the development and implementation of such initiative firsthand, UNICEF Young Envoys from Hong Kong have visited Japan this July.

During the four-day tour, our Young Envoys visited facilities of The Japan Committee for UNICEF, where they gained insights into the local practice and realization of child rights. They also toured around Hanegi Playground and a youth centre in Tokyo's Setagaya Ward, to experience how children are encouraged to develop freely and learn through play. In Machida City, a recognized child-friendly city, the group conducted a site visit and engaged in discussions with local government officials to understand how children participate in city planning. Throughout the tour, Young Envoys seized opportunities to interact with Japanese youth and children, sharing stories about their initiatives in Hong Kong, including community services, the creation of environmental-friendly project, conducting surveys, etc.

Julius, one of the Young Envoys, shared his observations during the tour. He noted that child-friendly elements were not only present in the facilities they visited but also appearing in more subtle aspects. For example, the placement of exhibits in local art galleries was intentionally lower to accommodate children, and the tour buses were equipped with footrests to make it easier for children and passengers with mobility issues to get on and off.

Carlos, another Young Envoy, likened the tour to a magnifying glass, which allowed him to observe the developments of Child Friendly Cities Initiatives in Japan. He emphasized that while the trip has ended, the story is far from over; and Young Envoys will bring back the insights and knowledge they gained in Japan to continue advocating for children’s rights in Hong Kong.

Mr Ivan Chu, Chairman of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK, described the study tour as highly inspiring, hoping that Young Envoys would develop leadership skills and continue to advocate for the concept of child-friendly cities in their daily lives. He also stated that UNICEF HK looks forward to collaborating with the government, business sector, academia, and other stakeholders to advance the development of child-friendly city for Hong Kong, ensuring a better childhood for all children.

   Young Envoys visit facilities of The Japan Committee for UNICEF and exchange ideas with Executive Director Mr. Hayamizu. 

 Hanegi Playground in Setagaya, Tokyo, allows children to participate in the construction of the site and encourages them to exercise their rights to play freely.

 Mr. Kikuchi, Director of Child and Youth Section at Machida City Hall, explains the local practices of the child-friendly city initiative to Young Envoys.

Young Envoys share and exchange experiences with Japanese youth.