Foundation leader gives speech at UN Human Rights Council

Zhang Yinjun, chairwoman of Beijing Changier Education Foundation, emphasized the importance of protecting the bottom line of children's human rights in a video speech at the 50th Session of the UN Human Rights Council.

She said as a woman and the leader of a public welfare organization that has long been engaged in the protection of women's and children's rights, she condemns the phenomena of child trafficking, child sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and sexual discrimination occurring all over the world with the utmost indignation.

"Legislation and punishment are no longer enough to curb the spread of such crimes. The fundamental measure is to strengthen sex education for children, enhancing their self-awareness and ability to protect themselves. The protective effect of mothers on children can't be replaced," she noted, adding Beijing Changier Education Foundation is willing to share its experience in protecting women's and children's rights.

The foundation has implemented public welfare projects in more than 1,200 schools and communities in 28 provinces of China to improve children's education, safety and health, and help them build safety awareness and self-esteem.

More than 13,000 teachers have been trained in projects on gender equality and children's rights to better support young girls to complete their basic education and grasp opportunities for future development. More than 34,000 children have benefited from these projects, Zhang said.

[Video provided to chinadaily.com.cn]