International Year of the Child

[1] The proclamation was signed on January 1, 1979, by United Nations Secretary General Kurt Waldheim.

A follow-up to the 1959 Declaration of the Rights of the Child, the proclamation was intended to draw attention to problems that affected children throughout the world, including malnutrition and lack of access to education.

A film festival showcasing international cartoon and film shorts focusing on children was held at the United Nations building in New York City on December 1, 1979.

Canadian animator/director Eugene Fedorenko created a film for the National Film Board of Canada, called Every Child, which centered on a nameless baby who nobody wants because they are too busy with their own concerns.

Sound effects were created with the voices of Les Mimes Electriques.

The Year of the Child logo was used in conjunction with observances worldwide.
UNICEF International Year of the Child 1979 German Silver Medal , obverse
Two parents and a child: the statue Family in the garden of the Palace of Nations ( United Nations Office at Geneva ) is a commemoration of the International Year of the Child.