First Meeting – Children’s Rights Through the Story of Iqbal

On May 27 2025, the OSCE Academy hosted the first session of the Children’s Rights Book Club, launched as part of a broader project to promote children’s rights through literature with support from the Global Campus of Human Rights and Right Livelihood Foundation. The participants were members of the Child Leadership Team, a group of motivated teenagers committed to learning about and advocating for children’s rights.

The theme of the first session was child labor, explored and presented by Nazgul Kadyrova, lead facilitator on the Children’s Book Club through the powerful book Iqbal by Francesco D’Adamo – a moving story of a brave boy who stood up against exploitation. Participants engaged in a lively discussion, shared personal reflections, and actively took part in interactive tasks. These activities helped them to better understand the challenges faced by millions of children worldwide.

 

About the Book
Iqbal tells the powerful true story of Iqbal Masih — a young boy from Pakistan who became a symbol of resistance against child labor. Sold into bonded labor at the age of four, Iqbal bravely stood up for his freedom and the rights of other children, inspiring change across the world. This story opened a space for deep reflection on what it means to grow up without rights — and what courage it takes to reclaim them.
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What We Did
We explored the topic of child labor through discussion, games, and storytelling. Participants uncovered the story of Iqbal, reflected on his courage, and connected it to children's rights today. They shared thoughts through quotes, created a Tree of Rights, and left inspired to protect every child’s right to a safe and free childhood.
Participant Reflections
The session made a strong impact on participants. Many said it was their first time discussing topics like child labor and injustice. Iqbal’s story inspired them to think about their own rights and the realities faced by children worldwide. Several students shared that they now feel more aware, empowered, and motivated to speak up or learn more.
Next Session: The Right to Education
In our next Book Club meeting, we will read the inspiring story of Malala Yousafzai, a girl who risked everything to defend the right of girls to go to school. Through her voice, we will explore the importance of access to education as a fundamental right — and reflect on what it means to speak out, even when it’s dangerous.
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