Today, 20 November 2008, on the International Children’s Rights Day, a closing event within the "Children’s Right to Protection" competition, which has been launched by the European Commission, took place in Center Evropa.

The competition was opened for children and youth aged 10-18, with a purpose that they explore, by designing a poster, their position in the European Union, learn their rights and also exercise them. At today’s ceremony, prepared by PIP Institute and the Representation of the European Commission in Slovenia, prizes were awarded to three best teams in two age groups. Among 120 entries, the first prize in the age group 10-14 years was awarded to Dolenjske Toplice Primary School, while the first prize in the age group 10-14 was received by Horticulture and Visual Arts School Celje. Both winners will compete in a second round at the European level. Final winners will be invited for a three-day visit to Brussels where they will explore the city and learn about the European institutions.

On behalf of the Government Office for European Affairs, the guests were addressed by Ms Sara Horžen who stressed that the International Children’s Rights Day may also serve as an opportunity to reflect on the position of children and their rights in our society. She also mentioned that the Government Office for European Affairs is aware that all crucial decisions within the EU institutions are taken also with a view to better future of our children. The audience was addressed by the Deputy Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Ljubljana, Mr Andrej Beloglavec, and representatives of the Ministry of Justice and PIP Institute as well.