"Children's rights are at the heart of human rights. I am committed to working with all stakeholders to make this a reality for all children," said Jaffé on the announcement of his re-election. Professor at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences of the University of Geneva, he was first elected to the committee in 2018 for the period 2019–22.
Chair of working group on children's rights and the environment
During his first term, Philip Jaffé brought his expertise, leadership skills and sensitivity to the committee. He has become an important actor in this expert body, contributing greatly to a constructive spirit of cooperation.
In his second term, Jaffé wants to do more to strengthen the global role of the CRC and to boost its communication strategy. His position as vice-chair of the media focal point will give him the tools to do so. As chair of the working group on children's rights and the environment, he also wants to give greater visibility to emerging issues in this area.
Born in Trinidad and Tobago, raised in Kenya, and with Swiss and US roots, Jaffé has a strong intercultural sensitivity. This quality is an asset in the committee's work to support the universality of the CRC while respecting the broad cultural diversity of the states parties. In this regard, Professor Jaffé stated: "Some may think that the CRC is just a document. But for me, it is alive and well and serving the two billion children around the world."
Switzerland ratified the CRC in February 1997
For Switzerland, the promotion and protection of children's rights are priority issues. Since 1997, it has worked hard for children's rights and to strengthen the various UN treaty bodies. The strength and effectiveness of these bodies also lies in the professionalism and rectitude of its members. The Swiss government is therefore pleased to have nominated Philip Jaffé and supported his candidacy.
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