Protecting basic human rights during the outbreak

How the needs of the most vulnerable are being addressed amidst the world’s new normal

While COVID-19 is bringing change to how we live, learn and work, challenges to human rights remain a key concern at Children Believe and other like-minded organizations and groups.

“Once this pandemic started, it exacerbated all of the issues we had pointed out before it began, such as poverty, the lack of access to quality education and the lack of access to health services,” says Nwanneakolam Vwede-Obahor, head of UN Human Rights East Africa regional office, in a recent article. “But it has also helped to confirm why the UN is here: to show governments how to do better for those who could possibly fall through the cracks.”

That mandate applies to many organizations.

At Children Believe, we’ve been connecting with vulnerable children and families to ensure they have access to life’s basic essentials, from food and clean water to personal-protective equipment to medical supplies for ill-equipped community health centres.

We’re also re-engaging community safety systems as financial and emotional hardships lead to child labour; early, forced marriage; and sexual abuse.

Creating an environment where children are nourished and healthy is key to our goal to keep them on course to complete their education. And, where possible, we’re providing alternative education outside the classroom.

You can help today. Learn more about other ways you can provide support.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

About Inspiring Stories

July 2025

Post G7 Aftermath: Why we Need to Keep Pushing for...

Why Canada must lead on global education: a call for bold action post-G7 to prevent conflict, foster peace, and invest in children’s futures.

July 2025

What does freedom mean?

This Nelson Mandela Day, discover what freedom means through the eyes of a child—and why education is the most powerful tool to unlock it.

June 2025

Children Believe’s Canadian journey

Celebrate Canada Day with Children Believe as we honour our Canadian roots, generous supporters, and a legacy of compassion creating change worldwide.