HM The King's opening speech at Global Child Forum 2022

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Royal Palace and the Global Child Forum 2022.

It’s been nearly four years since we hosted a Forum at the Palace and I am glad that we can now once again gather in person. I also welcome that this Forum will give us the opportunity to focus on a few select sectors and explore them more in detail.

Stockholm is a beautiful capital. But at this time of year, you have to be quick to catch a glimpse of its beauty. The sun rises late and then sets early.

One could argue that the Swedish December darkness is a fitting metaphor for the state of the world right now. Not least when it comes to children’s rights.

However, these dark days also let us clearly see the points of light. In fact, it is at this time of the year that the North Star appears to shine most brightly!

The North Star is famous for holding steady while the entire northern sky moves around it. For this reason, it has served as a navigational tool for sailors. A guiding light.

So I ask you today, what is your North Star? How can you, in your role as leaders from some of the world’s biggest companies, guide us to a better place?

Highly esteemed partners, the Queen and I very much appreciate this opportunity to bring together important stakeholders to mobilize and act for children’s rights.

While the darkness can sometimes feel discouraging, it also serves to make the light feel brighter. Today, you will bring the light.

Once again, a warm welcome. I wish you all a productive and inspiring Forum.