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Hong Kong, 21 October 2025 — Every child has the right to survive, thrive, and fulfill their potential. In line with this vision, the Hong Kong Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF HK) empowers young people to become advocates for children's rights worldwide. A cornerstone of this effort is the Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI), which supports local governments in integrating children’s voices, needs, priorities, and rights into public policies, urban planning, and everyday decision-making. With over 3,000 cities across 40 countries participating, this global movement is growing—and this summer, our UNICEF Young Envoys witnessed its impact firsthand.

Young Envoys embarked on an insightful journey to Mainland China and Laos to explore how the mainland harnesses development and innovation to create safe, inclusive, and engaging environments for children with support of UNICEF China and UNICEF Laos. Their visit to the UNICEF Laos Office expanded their global perspective, inspiring reflection on how to contribute to the welfare of children everywhere.

This seven-day study tour offered immersive experiences that blended technological innovation with profound cultural exchange. Their first stop, Hangzhou, China, showcased how digital technology is integrated into child-friendly urban planning. The Young Envoys observed initiatives like child-friendly healthcare systems, smart school-route monitoring, and interactive robots at Unitree Robotics, which demonstrated how technologies can meet children's diverse needs.

At the second stop in Suzhou, the group explored the fusion of cultural heritage and child participation at Suzhou Museum West. Through child-height displays and hands-on installations, the museum brings the “one-metre perspective” to life, demonstrating how policies and designs can be tailored for children and encourage participation from the younger generation.

The final stop in Laos provided a powerful contrast, highlighting community-driven solutions to environmental challenges. The Young Envoys learned about school-based air quality monitoring and innovative recycling programs that transform plastic waste into resources. Through dialogues with local youth and field workers, they gained a deeper understanding of how traditional culture influences education and development for children in Laos.

Leo, one of the Young Envoys, reflected on how Hangzhou and Suzhou incorporate child-friendly concepts into urban planning. He noted the thoughtful integration of technology and culture to enhance children’s daily lives—from smart safety systems on school routes to interactive museum exhibits designed for children. “It’s not just about advanced gadgets,” he said. “It’s about designing cities where children feel seen, heard, and included in everyday life.”

Another Young Envoy, Leila, shared that her experience in Laos broadened her global perspective. Engaging with local youth and communities underscored how fundamental needs—such as access to clean water, education, and healthcare—form the foundation of any child-friendly initiative. She expressed that the trip reinforced her belief in the importance of ensuring all children, including those in Hong Kong, have the opportunity to grow up in a supportive and equitable environment.

Ms. Judy Chen, Chairperson of UNICEF HK, noted that the study tour showcased diverse approaches to building child-friendly cities—from technological innovation in Hangzhou and cultural inclusivity in Suzhou to community-level resilience in Laos. “Each approach shares a common goal: placing children at the heart of urban development,” Ms. Chen emphasized. “We are confident that our Young Envoys will translate these global insights into local action, contributing to Hong Kong’s progress as a city where every child can thrive.”

Building a truly child-friendly city requires collective involvement and effort from all sectors of society.

Since 2008, the Young Envoys Programme has been solely sponsored by AEON Credit Service (Asia) Co., Ltd. for 18 consecutive years, to support the continual growth of local youth and unleash their full potential.

Looking forward, UNICEF HK remains committed to advancing the Child Friendly City Initiative in Hong Kong. We will continue to strengthen collaboration with government bodies community organizations and other stakeholders to create a more inclusive and nurturing city for all children.

*UNICEF does not endorse any companies, brands, products or services.

Young Envoys explored child-height exhibitions and interactive installations at Suzhou Museum West, gaining firsthand insight into kid-centric design.

Through their visit to Unitree Robotics in Hangzhou, Young Envoys explored how cutting-edge robotic technology can enhance children’s wellbeing.

By engaging with local youth in Hangzhou, Young Envoys gained valuable insights into how technology can address the unique needs of children.

Through dialogues with the UNICEF Laos Office and local youth, the Young Envoys gained a deeper understanding of the challenges facing children and young people in Laos.