Second Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children: From commitments to action

On 18 and 19 November 2026, ministers from more than 100 countries will gather in Manila, the Philippines, for the Second Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children. The goal? To turn international commitments into concrete action to protect children from violence. Four experts from Terre des Hommes Netherlands share why this conference matters and what it will take to create lasting change for children worldwide.

A crucial moment for children’s protection

Millions of children around the world experience violence, abuse and exploitation. The consequences can last a lifetime, affecting their physical and mental health, education, development and future opportunities.

In 2024, world leaders gathered in Bogotá, Colombia, for the first Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children. Two years later, the focus shifts from making commitments to delivering results.

The second conference in Manila brings together governments, civil society organisations, survivors and young people to discuss how to strengthen child protection and accelerate progress.

But what will it take to turn these commitments into meaningful change for children?

1. Making children’s voices heard

Jean Elphick, Director of Impact at Terre des Hommes Netherlands, highlights the importance of ensuring that children and young people have a meaningful voice in these discussions.

By bringing together ministers from around the world, the conference creates an opportunity for children to share their experiences, ideas and priorities directly with those shaping national policies.

2. Investing in protection and innovation

Violence against children has devastating consequences, yet efforts to prevent and address it remain critically underfunded worldwide.

At the same time, emerging threats require new approaches. Children increasingly face risks in digital environments, including technology-facilitated exploitation and the misuse of artificial intelligence.

According to Gráinne Le Fevre, CEO of Terre des Hommes Netherlands, greater investment is essential. Without adequate resources, international commitments risk remaining promises on paper.

3. Turning promises into real change

International commitments matter, but their true value lies in the difference they make in children’s everyday lives.

For Zosa Gruber, Head of Programmes at Terre des Hommes Netherlands, the measure of success is simple: will children actually be safer after Manila? The conference can only be considered a success if commitments translate into tangible improvements in children’s lives.

4. Working together to end violence

Eva Notté, Technical Expert on Child Labour at Terre des Hommes Netherlands, emphasises the importance of breaking down barriers between sectors. Education, healthcare, social welfare and justice systems must work together to provide children with effective protection.

This requires more than individual initiatives. By connecting expertise and resources, as well as children’s voices, different sectors can address the underlying causes of violence and exploitation more effectively.

From global commitments to safer childhoods

The conference in Manila is an important opportunity to strengthen global efforts to end violence against children. But the real test begins when ministers return home.

We remain committed to preventing and stopping violence and exploitation. By working alongside children, communities, governments and partner organisations, we aim to address not only the consequences of exploitation, but also its root causes.