Architecture of Children's Well-Being: Outcomes and Significance of the Samarkand Summit
The Samarkand Declaration, adopted on October 23, 2026, following the World Summit and the II International Congress on Pediatric Oncology, marked an important step in shaping the international agenda for protecting the rights, health, and well-being of children. The two-day forum, held on October 21–22 in Samarkand, brought together representatives of government agencies, the medical community, and international organizations. One of the key topics was the issue of inequality […]
Architecture of Children's Wellbeing: Outcomes and Significance of the Samarkand Summit
The Samarkand Declaration, approved on October 23, 2026, following the Global Summit and the II International Congress on Pediatric Oncology, became a significant step in shaping an international agenda aimed at protecting the rights, health, and wellbeing of children.
The two-day forum, which took place on October 21–22 in Samarkand, brought together representatives of government agencies, the medical community, and international organizations. One of the central themes was the issue of unequal access for children to the diagnosis and treatment of oncological diseases.
According to data presented in the summit materials, up to 80% of children with oncological diseases recover in high-income countries, whereas in developing countries this figure is less than 30%. Narrowing this gap requires expanding access to quality medical care, improving early diagnosis systems, and strengthening international cooperation.
Shakhnoza Mirziyoyeva, First Deputy Director of the National Agency for Social Protection under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, presented information on state support measures for families with children. Particular emphasis was placed on targeted social assistance, the development of inclusive education, and the improvement of the palliative care system.
The summit also demonstrated that issues of children's wellbeing extend beyond exclusively medical and social spheres. Cultural figures and public personalities play a substantial role in drawing public attention to children's issues.
Among the participants who supported the summit's initiatives was American actor and Oscar winner Adrien Brody, who donated an original painting.
The adoption of the Samarkand Declaration signaled the forum participants' commitment to the further development of international cooperation in the interests of children. Now, the main task lies in the practical implementation of the stated principles — ensuring equal access to medical care, social support, and opportunities for the full development of every child.