We, members of the International Korczak Association (IKA), and followers of Korczak’s vision of equality and solidarity among all men, women, and children, condemn all current worldwide eruptions of violence and expressions of racism against Jews, Muslims, and any other groups of minorities and people of different faiths, races, or genders.

 

Following Korczak’s vision, the UN Declaration of Human Rights (1948), and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (NY, 1989, updated 2024), we reaffirm the unconditional rights of all individuals, especially children, to respect and social justice, regardless of origin, faith, race, gender, or social status.

 

We condemn current antisemitic, xenophobic, and Islamophobic calls and rallies in Europe, America, and Australia, which go far beyond legitimate political discourse, as well as hateful caricatures in the press and social media, and any expressions of hate against any group of people. We raise a black flag in the face of neo-Nazi movements and public expressions of hate against immigrants and minorities seeking refuge and a haven for their families.

We call on all people to unite behind the universal cause of children—all children—and their right to safety, happiness, and well-being, as stated in the New York 1989 (2024) “UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.”

 

We urge nations, governments, and civic institutions to raise their voices for global solidarity, the safety and rights of children, and against all expressions of prejudice, hate, and violence.