NEW YORK: The Sultanate of Oman actively participated in the first regular session of 2025 of the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) Executive Board, held at Unicef's headquarters in New York. The session focused on key issues including performance evaluations of Unicef's ongoing programmes, reviewing the effectiveness of projects supporting children globally, and discussing future plans to strengthen the protection of children’s rights amidst the contemporary challenges the world faces.
In his opening statement, Ambassador Omar bin Saeed Al Kathiri, Permanent Representative of Oman to the United Nations, commended Unicef for its invaluable efforts in advancing children’s welfare. He reiterated Oman’s ongoing commitment to developing policies and legislation that champion children’s rights, in alignment with the country’s Vision 2040. He emphasised that Oman will continue to cooperate with international organizations to achieve a brighter, safer future for children everywhere.
Additionally, the Sultanate of Oman presented a joint statement delivered by First Secretary Maysa bint Khamis Al Shabli, a member of the Permanent Delegation for Unicef Humanitarian Action. The statement reaffirmed Oman’s strong stance on the urgent need for increased international humanitarian aid to ensure Palestinian children receive the protection and rights they deserve.
A key focus during the session was the Unicef Executive Board’s review of the organisation’s policy and strategy for disability inclusion for the years 2022-2030. Shanoona bint Salem Al Habsi, Oman’s representative on the Unicef Executive Board, took the opportunity to highlight the importance of supporting and empowering children with disabilities, advocating for their full inclusion and integration into society. She shared Oman’s significant efforts to foster an inclusive environment that enhances opportunities for disabled children to actively participate in all aspects of social life.
Oman’s strategic partnership with Unicef has emerged as a unique model for supporting children’s rights and ensuring their care.
This collaboration reflects Oman’s national priorities, especially as articulated in Vision 2040, while also demonstrating the Sultanate’s unwavering commitment to the international conventions and agreements that promote the rights of children. Oman continues to prioritise the holistic development of children, encompassing health, education, protection, and the integration of children with disabilities into society. - ONA
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