A/71/206 13. Violence is widespread and pervasive and affects children of all ages. For each child at risk and for countries the world over, the clock is ticking, and for so many children their world is defined by one word: fear. 14. It is imperative that these concerns be addressed, and the 2030 Agenda provides an inspiring vision and a strategic framework with which to move in a positive direction. The new Agenda recognizes the dignity of children and their right to grow up in a violence-free environment as a priority for sustainable development and makes ending all forms of violence against children a universal target to be achieved by 2030. 15. The international community can transform this momentum into an inclusive and unstoppable movement and place the protection of children from violence at the forefront of the policy agenda of every nation. 16. This is the spirit behind the High Time to End Violence against Children initiative, launched by the Special Representative with a wide range of partners at the thirty-first regular session of the Human Rights Council, in March 2016. 17. At the launch, the Secretary-General noted: “Violence can be prevented, and we know how. It is high time to end all forms of violence against children. ” It is indeed high time to close the gap between the commitments to preventing and addressing violence against children and the action that can translate this goal into a reality for all children, leaving no child behind. It is high time to genuinely address the root causes of violence and promote a culture of respect for children ’s rights and of zero tolerance of violence. It is high time to mobilize and ignite the passion of all those who can actively engage in the creation of circles of non -violence in children’s homes, schools and communities. 18. The High Time to End Violence against Children initiative recognizes the transformative power of leaders from all walks of life and the determination of people to stand up for children and broaden the movement to free al l children from violence. In the countdown to 2030, everybody counts and everybody is needed: Governments, international and regional organizations, professional associations, faith-based organizations, the business sector and civil society partners, as we ll as children themselves. Box 1 High Time to End Violence against Children High Time to End Violence against Children is an innovative initiative to raise time and talent and is aimed at stimulating and supporting positive, visible and concrete initiatives designed to ensure the protection of children from violence and reach the targets related to combating violence in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, especially target 16.2. Using information and communications technologies, the Internet and social media and inspired by the online crowdsourcing model, the initiative offers a platform for Governments, organizations, professional associations, faith -based organizations, children and adults to express their commitment to children ’s freedom from violence by creating, joining and supporting circles of non -violence. 4/23 16-12906