Summary: Conference theme: Record, Recognise, Respect Despite booming economies and rapid development in many countries in Asia and the Pacific, millions of children are still being denied their first and most fundamental right - the right to an identity. According to UNICEF estimates, over half of the births in the developing world (excluding China) go unregistered each year. South Asia has the largest number, around 70 per cent, while in East Asia and the Pacific the figure is 35 per cent. When children lack a birth certificate: Having a legal identity should not have to be justified. Being able to prove who we are and where we were born are not privileges; they are basic human rights. From 14-17 March, civil registrars from 26 countries in Asia and the Pacific, along with civil society groups, development organisations and child and human rights advocates, will meet in Bangkok to agree on ways to tackle the issue of Universal Birth Registration. They will seek to: The conference is being jointly organised by Plan International and UNICEF and the fourth of its kind to put birth registration on the agenda in Asia and the Pacific. Media are welcome to attend the conference and are encouraged to register in advance. In addition, key experts for interviews, case studies and other background information will be available. A final press conference will be held on 17 March at 11am at the Grand Mercure Fortune Hotel, Rachadaphisek Rd., Dindaeng, Bangkok, Thailand.
Making Universal Birth Registration a Reality in Asia and the Pacific.
4th Asia and the Pacific Regional Conference on Universal Birth Registration
They can be denied access to basic services such as education, health care and social security.
They are often unable to prove their age, nationality or who their parents are.
They have less protection against early and forced marriages, premature conscription into the armed forces, and the risk of being trafficked.
It is much more difficult to provide them with protection or reunite them with their families in times of natural disaster or conflict.
Ensure current policies and laws are implemented
Tackle the legal and political complexities of reaching marginalised communities
Explore affordable and effective systems to ensure every child is registered at birth
Highlight the importance of birth registration and educate people on where they can access these services
Share experiences on civil registration during disasters and complex emergencies and identify preparedness measures.
Organisation:
Countries
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