B’nai B’rith Portugal, in partnership with the London-based International Observatory of Human Rights, has released a bilingual book titled “The Universal Rights of Children.” The publication, released in time for both the Jewish holiday of Passover and the Christian celebration of Easter, aims to raise awareness about the fundamental rights of Jewish children worldwide.
The book, written in English and Portuguese, features illustrations inspired by the United Nations’ Declaration of the Rights of the Child. It is being distributed to international organizations and made available online as a powerful reminder that Jewish children, like all children, are entitled to protection, dignity, and safety.
“In Judaism, children are not only granted rights, but parents are bound by sacred obligations. These go beyond basic needs—they include teaching children how to live with purpose and integrity,” said Israeli Ambassador to Portugal Oren Rozenblat, who attended the book’s launch event in Porto.
“Passover reminds us of our duty to educate—‘Vehigadeta levincha’—'You shall tell your child.’ Every child represents our future, and it is our mission to equip them with the tools to shape it with love, dignity, and compassion,” he added.
Gabriela Cantergi, president of B’nai B’rith Portugal, said, “The traditional Jewish family does not raise its children to hate, incite violence or become instruments of division. Rather, we strive to instill values rooted in some of the greatest civilizations—respect for tradition, productivity, compassion and a healthy dose of pragmatism. We want our children to serve humanity, not destroy it.
“Parents, families, communities, states and international institutions are the true custodians of our children’s future,” she continued. “The Declaration of the Rights of the Child—and its predecessor, the Geneva Declaration—outlines basic principles that, if properly implemented, can ensure the flourishing of future generations. As a Jewish mother, this is my wish for all children, everywhere.”
B’nai B’rith Portugal represents Jews from across the country. Portugal’s Jewish community numbers more than 5,000 people and continues to thrive and grow, with synagogues, museums, choirs, kosher restaurants and internationally recognized films that highlight Jewish history and heritage.
