Ana Ivanovic blog: “School without Violence” . UNICEF National Ambassador for Serbia

Yesterday in Belgrade, UNICEF National Ambassador for Serbia Ana met with pupils, principals and parents from four primary and secondary schools that have implemented the “School without Violence” programme, as well as the donors who support the work of UNICEF. 

She was joined by Michel Saint-Lot, UNICEF Representative in Serbia. The gathering was held at the Delphi bookstore in the Student Cultural Centre, where the group discussed what has been achieved and what challenges remain on the path to the prevention and protection of children from violence. “The School without Violence programme is very important, and I am pleased that it has achieved significant results,” said Ana. 

 “But violence is occurring outside of school as well; in homes and families, on sports fields, on the street, in the virtual world, in society as a whole. No child should live in fear of violence or be exposed to violence. I'll help as much as I can and am committed to supporting the work of UNICEF to improve the lives of children. 

 “I will advocate for the prevention of violence, I'll talk with children and will speak on their behalf. This is my personal obligation. Also, I will provide support to children and families affected by emergency situations, as I did this year when major floods occurred in Serbia," In the words of UNICEF, in order to prevent and end violence against children, it is necessary to formulate an integrated strategy that will be based on the commitment and resources of all sections of society.