UNICEF Bihar and Amity University Patna Host Media Conclave to Promote Child Rights

UNICEF Bihar and Amity University Patna in partnership organised a Media Conclave today, where a distinguished group of media professionals, government officials and students explored the important role of media in the protection and promotion of children’s rights. Shri Ravi Bhushan Sahay, Joint Director, Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Bihar was the Chief Guest of the Conclave. The aim of the Media Conclave was to motivate the media to engage deeply on the diverse challenges faced by children and adolescents.

Moderated by Shivendra Pandey, Programme Manager, UNICEF Bihar, the panel discussion was attended by an impressive group of editors from leading English, Hindi and Urdu newspapers, representatives from Doordarshan, FM and digital media platforms. They had a thought-provoking dialogue that emphasised the urgency of media advocacy to shed light on the challenges faced by children and adolescents.

During the discussion, key issues such as inequalities in health and education, child labour and child marriage were highlighted. The panelists emphasised that these problems, which are deeply rooted in socio-economic inequalities, demand the urgent and sustained attention of the media. They agreed that journalism is a powerful tool, capable of shaping public discourse, igniting dialogue and influencing community action and policy reforms that can bring about lasting change for children and adolescents. It was also pointed out that a gender-sensitive approach to reporting can ensure that all children, regardless of their gender, are seen, heard and protected.

The panel also emphasised that while laws have been enacted to protect children from abuse and neglect, the implementation of these laws is often weak. This is where the role of the media becomes crucial. By consistently reporting the gaps and highlighting instances where children remain vulnerable, the media can ensure that laws designed to protect children’s rights are not only enforced but also implemented effectively.

Another major topic of discussion was promoting children’s participation in public discourse. The panel highlighted that giving children a voice in issues that matter to their lives fosters their sense of empowerment and activism, making them active contributors in their communities. Media representatives were urged to create spaces for children, ensuring that the perspectives of young people, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, are heard and respected.

The panel discussion concluded with a strong call for stronger collaboration between the media, government, and civil society to address these multifaceted challenges. The Media Conclave successfully laid the foundation for future dialogues and partnerships aimed at strengthening child rights advocacy. The event concluded with participants making a renewed commitment to use their platforms to reveal children’s stories, advocate for their rights, and promote a brighter, safer future for every child, ensuring that every child can lead a safe, healthy, and empowered life.

Many media houses including Hindustan Times, Hindustan, Qaumi Tanzeem, Doordarshan Bihar, Red FM, Deshpran Digital Newspaper and Live Bihar Digital Channel participated in this conclave.