The International Children’s Peace Prize celebrates youth leadership. Now it’s time for business leaders to step up for children’s rights too.
Ekin Ergün Björstedt
Secretary General, Global Child Forum
International
Children’s Peace Prize 2025
Highlights and results
Celebrating Youth Leadership
We were proud to co-organise the 21st International Children’s Peace Prize together with the KidsRights Foundation.
On 19 November, we honoured young changemakers who are boldly advancing children’s rights around the world — including this year’s laureate, Bana Alabed, recognised for her relentless advocacy for war-affected children. Through this event, Global Child Forum highlighted the vital role that businesses can play in supporting youth leadership, strengthening our shared commitment to a sustainable, just, and rights-based future for all children.
The winner received the Nkosi statuette, the Desmond Tutu Fund, a study and care grant to continue their education, and a €100,000 project fund to support their cause in partnership with KidsRights. Past laureates have included Malala Yousafzai and Greta Thunberg.
Credits: Rickard Eriksson/Global Child Forum
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THREE YOUNG LEADERS
Meet the Finalists
Three outstanding young leaders—representing Syria/Türkiye, Indonesia, and the United States—were recognised as finalists for their contributions to:
- children’s rights,
- environmental justice,
- climate action, and
- community resilience.
Their stories highlight the power of youth in shaping the future.
Continue exploring our work
Use these resources to learn more about Global Child Forum’s mission and impact:
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Global Benchmark 2025 – See how companies perform on children’s rights
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Corporate Playbook – Practical tools for business
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Company Scorecards – Data-driven insights
Even though the ceremony has concluded, our work continues as Global Child Forum remains committed to expanding and refining our research and benchmarks, engaging the private sector in meaningful action for children, and building the foundation for future editions of the Prize.
Why the International Children’s Peace Prize Matters
Since its creation in 2005, the Prize has become one of the world’s most respected youth awards. Each edition amplifies the voices of young leaders and inspires action across governments, civil society, and the private sector.
Since its creation in 2005, the Prize has become one of the world’s most respected youth awards. Each edition amplifies the voices of young leaders and inspires action across governments, civil society, and the private sector. Key reasons this event has lasting impact:
1. Global visibility
Millions engage with the stories of the laureates through international media coverage.
2. Real-world impact
The project fund supports tangible programmes that improve children’s lives.
3. Corporate engagement
As co-host, Global Child Forum highlights the crucial role of businesses in respecting children’s rights across global value chains.
Media Coverage
The message of the young winner is broadcast by international media, reaching millions globally—in 2024, outreach was an impressive 3.8 billion. That year, the ceremony was featured by outlets like BBC, CNN, and The Independent.
With heartfelt thanks to Nobis Hotel for welcoming and hosting our guests.
IMAGE CREDITS
KidsRights, (photographer: Jerry Lampen)