GUYANA today joins with many nations around the world in observing International Day for the Protection of Children. I take this opportunity to once again express my abhorrence of all forms of abuse against children and to call for such practices to be brought to an end. Children are our special responsibility. We have an obligation as a society to work towards the eradication of all forms of abuse against children so that they can all enjoy their childhood which is an important stage in the development of all of us.  By themselves, they are unable to defend against abuse. As such they need special attention and protection. The scars caused by abuse often leave an indelible mark on children and the effects of abuse sometimes endure through to adulthood. It is therefore important that every child is safeguarded from abuse.
On this International Day for the Protection of Children, I wish to add my humble appeal to the many voices around the world who have called for the release of the kidnapped schoolgirls in Nigeria. How terrible it must be for these schoolgirls to be away from their families for so long. How agonizing it must be for their parents who are worried about the safety of their children.  I pray that these children are safely returned to the parents as soon as possible and that all measures taken to free the children will ensure that no harm comes to any of them.
My thoughts and prayers remain always with all children wherever they may be who are subject to abuse and other forms of suffering. I embrace them with my love and affection.  We all should, because by  letting our children know that we care we can give them hope.
May this International Day for the Protection of Children intensify efforts to bring hope to all, but especially to the innocent children of this world!

First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar