H.M. Drottningens tal med anledning av Drottning Silvias professur i global barn- och ungdomshälsa med fokus på psykisk hälsa

One year has passed since the very first round table on Child and Adolescent Mental Health at the University of Gothenburg. In that short time, many important initiatives in this field have developed here.

I am particularly pleased about the recruitment of Professor Anja Huizink as the Queen Silvia’s Professor in “Global Child and Adolescent Health” – a truly special initiative, and as it happens, my birthday gift.

Professor Huizink is a distinguished researcher from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, whose work focuses on how stress, anxiety and early life shape children's health and development. Her appointment marks an important step in strengthening international collaboration for the well-being of children and young people worldwide.

Equally gratifying is today’s round table, which brings together a highly competent group of participants to address a crucial question: what research is needed to improve the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child? It is essential that we identify the areas where knowledge gaps remain and set priorities for research. And there is no better way to do so than by gathering high-level global, regional and local stakeholders for discussion.

Tomorrow, on World Mental Health Day, the international theme will be “Mental health of humanitarian emergencies,” which sadly reminds us of the ongoing conflicts across the globe. At the same time, it underscores the urgency of upholding The Convention on the Rights of the Child even in the face of war and displacement, an urgency that Minister Uliutin has so powerfully demonstrated through his dedicated work.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The Convention on the Rights of the Child is more than a legal document. It is a moral compass. It reminds us that children are individuals with their own rights, not merely dependents on adults. It calls on us to ensure that their voices are heard, that their best interests guide every decision, and that their health and well-being are protected.

This obligation applies everywhere and always – whether in times of peace or in times of war. I am convinced that strengthening research on how to put the Convention into practice is one of the most effective ways to build a better future for all children.

So, let us open this round table with a shared purpose: to identify the research most urgently needed to improve the mental health of children and adolescents. The insights we gather here today will feed directly into tomorrow's research conference, ensuring continuity and impact.

I am confident that the discussions ahead will be very valuable, and I already look forward to advancing our important work at next year's high-level round table.

Thank you.