Several hundred children responded to the call to take part in a drawing contest by which to state their views on the right to health services. The contest was announced at the end of this November by the People’s Ombudsman Office and the winners were chosen today, December 10.

Ombudswoman for Children’s Rights Maia Banarescu has told IPN that the children who took part in the contest presented over 500 works. This is a proof of the fact that the changes in society are followed by children as well.

“We have drawings with very important content that makes you think. The massive participation convinced us that we have children who take an active part in the social life and are a hope for the future of the Republic of Moldova,” stated the Ombudswoman for Children’s Rights.

Of the 500 drawings, 51 were awarded. The prizes came from the People’s Ombudsman, the Speaker of Parliament, UNICEF and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. These included diplomas, books and encyclopedias. The other participants in the contest also received prizes.

“There are many drawings to which the children transposed the phenomenon of corruption in medicine, but also drawings that promote a healthy lifestyle,” stated Maia Banarescu.

In the first forum of discussions with children, where these stated their opinion about the rights that they consider are violated, the children said the right to education and then the rights to opinion and to health services are most often infringed. The children also said that owing to the loaded education program, their right to rest is also violated.

The drawings will be exhibited at the Ministry of Health and in Parliament.