November 20, 2004, the 15^th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, finds us among the echoes of the recent XIX Pan American Child Congress.

Reflecting and analyzing the progress that has been made over the course of all these years, I would like to share my sincere conviction and satisfaction in recognizing that, in spite of it all, overcoming our human limitations, our inevitable errors and our legitimate doubts and uncertainties, we are on the right path. 

The text of the Convention on the Rights of the Child was discussed and prepared over the course of ten years. A Working Group comprised of the UN Commission on Human Rights, independent experts, delegations of observers of non-member governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and UN agencies all worked on drafting the text. Despite different interests as well as the political, religious and cultural differences between those who participated in this process, they were able to take this historical step forward, resulting in almost unanimous international ratification.

As you all know, the Convention has become the most extensively accepted human rights treaty in history. Nations – each with its own rhythm and its own advances and setbacks – have taken the path of accepting the principles of the Convention and making them a reality.

Something almost intangible that emerges from the Convention, and which can guide us in assessing its historical and civilizing dimension, is its enormous moral weight.

No one anywhere on the planet who is familiar with the rights and obligations established in the Convention can remain outside its ethical imperative. Explanations, justifications and pretexts can be found, but no one can avoid the feeling that they would be remiss if they did not do everything possible and necessary to comply with the guidelines and provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

This conscience – an invisible halo above all of us – is the most subtle guarantee that this process of historical transformation is irreversible and unstoppable.

As we continue this firm, widespread advance, patience, optimism, seriousness and effort are some of the key elements of the wisdom required in these times. At the beginning and the end, our children and adolescents, greater humanity and a better world are waiting.

Thank you for sharing this path with us.