Tens of children gathered in Valletta today for Malta's first-ever Children's Peace March to voice their concerns in a one loud, unified voice.

This national event, organised by the Malta Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society, in collaboration with MaltaCAN, the Local Councils Association and the Mediterranean Children's Movement, brought together young people from  schools, and child organisations to walk together for peace, kindness, and unity.

The march started at St George's Square, Valletta and culminated with messages of peace in front of the Parliament Building.

Local Council Association president Mario Fava, MaltaCAN president Karen Buttigieg and child representatives from different local councils were among those who delivered strong messages for peace, unity and compassion.

This march represents the culmination of President Emeritus Marie Louise Coleiro Preca's decades-long work to elevate children's voices, both in Malta and beyond, through her position as president of the Mediterranean Children's Movement.

"This march for peace reminds us of a simple truth: children can only enjoy their rights when they live in peace. By nurturing ethical values, we empower every child to become a beacon of compassion, courage and hope. When we teach peace, we plant the seeds of a brighter, more just world; one that our children not only inherit, but help create," she said.

With the theme Mit-Tfal għat-Tfal: Flimkien għal-Paċi (From Children for Children: Together for Peace), the march was held to promote peace, respect, ethical values and empathy among children and youngsters.

Laura Marie Mercieca, Children's Local Councils project coordinator, said during the local meetings, children spoke openly about how troubled they were to witness social exclusion, the increasing number of children living below the poverty line, bullying, and most of all, the suffering of children affected by conflict and war.

"These issues weigh heavily on them as bystanders. They feel no child, no matter their background, should have to face such hardship," Mercieca said.

"The children themselves feel as though they cannot remain silent any longer. They want their voices to be heard and to show they are ready to be part of the change. Their inspiration comes from a shared belief that coming together,              standing side by side and marching as one, can send a strong message of solidarity with children everywhere."

Mercieca added that through this march, the children hoped to raise awareness, spark conversation, and inspire action.

"They want adults, institutions, and communities to recognise that young people are paying attention and that they care deeply about the world around them. The march is their first collective step toward building a fairer, kinder, and more peaceful world."