COMMUNITY OF SOLIDARITY IN THE ACTIVITIES OF JANUSZ KORCZAK AND THE CHILDREN AWARDED WITH THE ORDER OF THE SMILE

Abstract

The timeless ideas of Janusz Korczak continue to inspire global efforts to promote the rights and well-being of children, embodying the principle of social solidarity. His philosophy, centered on the dignity and agency of children, is reflected in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), which establishes legal, social and cultural standards for protecting children and fostering their relationships with adults. Korczak’s legacy thrives on the international Korczak’s movement, active in Europe, the Americas, Africa and Asia, fueled by dedicated leaders and growing support, particularly highlighted during the 2012 Year of Janusz Korczak.

The Order of the Smile, initiated by children in 1968 and internationalized in 1978 by the UN Secretary-General, is a powerful symbol of Korczak’s vision of social solidarity. As the only international award given exclusively to adults at the request of children, it emphasizes children's equality and agency, alluding to the Korczakian belief that «there are no children, there are people». The Group of Ladies and Chevaliers of the Order of the Smile represents a global commitment to the values valued by children, uniting communities in solidarity to protect their subjectivity and dignity.