Nowruz Message: The Spring of Childhood!

Nowruz is a symbol of renewal, hope, and prosperity. Yet, in this unequal world, many children are deprived of their most basic rights.

How can we celebrate the new year with joy when thousands of children in Iran are denied access to education, proper nutrition, healthcare, and security? Children who are forced to work on the streets, live in marginalized areas, miss out on schooling, and even become victims of violence and discrimination.

Children Who Lack Toys – and Even Bread

The right to nutritious food, shelter, and healthcare is one of the most fundamental rights of children. However, statistics show that malnutrition is spreading in several parts of Iran, especially in provinces such as Sistan and Baluchestan, Khuzestan, and Kerman. Children suffering from poverty and food shortages not only face physical growth problems but also struggle with learning, which affects their future.

Children Whose Future is Stolen

Child marriage is one of the hidden tragedies in Iranian society. Reports indicate that thousands of young girls are forced into marriage each year without having any say in the matter. These children, who have yet to experience their own childhood, are suddenly thrust into a life filled with suffering and heavy responsibilities. This ruthless theft of young girls’ futures is a blatant violation of children’s rights.

Children Who Are Denied Rights Due to Their Parents’ Beliefs

In Iran, some children are deprived of basic rights such as education and even official identity simply because of their religion, ethnicity, or their parents’ beliefs. Bahá’í children are barred from university enrollment, Afghan children are denied education due to a lack of identification documents, and children in border regions are deprived of educational and healthcare facilities due to ethnic discrimination.

Nowruz Means Renewal – and Change!

Nowruz is not just a celebration; it is a message of transformation and equality. Let us make this new year a year in which:

•No child is forced to work on the streets.

•No child suffers from malnutrition or is denied education due to poverty.

•No child becomes a victim of early marriage and violence.

•No child is deprived of their universal rights because of their nationality, religion, or ethnicity.

Let us celebrate Nowruz for all children in Iran. If Nowruz symbolizes renewal, then let us build a society where children are the first priority.

Nowruz Pirooz!

With hope for a future where no child is without rights.

Karim Shamohammadi

2025-03-20