We need more actors from every part of society to put children and young people at the centre.
H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf
His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf
Celebrating 80 Years — and a Commitment to Stand Up for Children
Global Child Forum
A Royal Birthday and a Global Movement
2026 is a year of profound celebration — for Sweden, and for every child whose life has been touched by a vision that has guided our work from the very beginning.
When His Majesty founded Global Child Forum, he brought something rare: a conviction that the wellbeing of children is not a peripheral concern, but a central measure of how we build our societies and our economies. Through decades of change, that belief has never wavered. Because of his leadership, thousands of companies across the world are asking harder questions, holding themselves to higher standards, and recognising that how business treats children today shapes the world we all inherit tomorrow.
On behalf of the entire Global Child Forum team, I want to say: thank you. Thank you for your vision, your perseverance, and your belief that business can — and must — be a force for good in the lives of children everywhere.
As we mark this milestone, we invite you to carry that spirit forward. Below, you will find three meaningful ways to honour His Majesty’s legacy by advancing children’s rights within your own organisation. The best tribute we can offer is action.
Ekin Björstedt
Secretary General, Global Child Forum
A vision made real
A history of H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf and Global Child Forum - told through his words
Did you know?
Our Forum event is held every two years at the Royal Palace in Stockholm.
Over the years, their majesties H.M. the King and H.M. the Queen of Sweden have been more than just the gracious hosts of this prestigious event.
They have participated as delegates in these essential discussions on the rights of children within the corporate and financial worlds, sharing their viewpoints and experience directly during our solution-oriented ActionLab working sessions.
Global Child Forum is proud to continue driving the debate on children’s rights and business with the support of our founders.
What’s next? Three simple actions for your company
Join the Impact Network
Access a community of companies and professionals striving to improve their approach to children's rights
Read the latest benchmark report
Discover the trends, check your score, and identify where you can be better
Discover how to ListenUp!
Read about our digital wellbeing initiative and tell us how you would like to collaborate