“Some said being bullied is code of the school yard. That's what makes you into a man.”

“I don’t think that’s how we nurture a kid. Competition must be there, but it should be of intellect and sportsmanship, not physical/psychological abuse.”

This is just one of the many exchanges on Myanmar social media generated by #TheRealChallenge campaign of the European Union and UNICEF. #TheRealChallenge encouraged children across the world to advocate for their own rights using TikTok and any other social media platforms they like. Advancing on children rights is not possible without children’s participation – and the 282 million views of #TheRealChallenge prove that kids have a voice and they are not afraid to use it.

The EU in Myanmar also launched its own initiative to enable children’s self-expression: a kids art competition with 30+1 prizes to celebrate the 30^th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Art is an ever-powerful tool to talk about what human rights mean for children: a good education, the time to play and relax, and the space to let their voices be heard.

The EU Delegation in Myanmar received almost 200 beautiful drawings and paintings from children across Myanmar. Beyond their artistic value, these images are a testimony to children’s imagination, sense of humour, resilience and intelligence. You can look at all the artwork in our online gallery: https://www.instagram.com/euinmyanmar4children/. And to do your bit, join #TheRealChallenge to stand up for children’s rights in Myanmar and across the world.