Schoolkiids standing in front of a world map

Here is my song for my protection A song of love, respect and security Here I am - let's get in action Let's live in peace and dignity

It was a Sunday evening, and a couple of friends were sitting at a table in a cottage in the Austrian Alps. Among them was the musician Frank Posch, who asked me, "Tell me, what exactly is it you do at SOS Children's Villages?" Stories of children's rights, policies and global strategies to meet the needs of children filled the small room. Eyes widened and hearts opened up: "What a beautiful contribution to the positive development of this world! I wish I could add something to this as a musician!" The first flame was lit, and the next steps didn't take long: the new SOS song was born in Imst, the same little town as the first SOS Children's Village.

What's behind a shining face? How do you describe a smiling face? What is wrong? What is right? There is one answer: love is the key

Today Frank says, "I'm happy that with this song we - or rather the children and young people - can give a clear statement, namely: Here I am, and since I am, I have rights. And for me, the quintessence of these rights is love."

You respect me Respect my body and my soul, respect my point of view … together we can make it, create a safe place

And our strength lies in doing this together: each and every one of us can make a contribution. Children and young people themselves play a central role in claiming their right to protection. And with this song they clearly express their desire to participate: a seventeen-year-old girl sings the introduction, the Downtown Children and Family Choir joins in enthusiastically at full volume, supported by Frank Posch and Gail Anderson, and young people play in the band alongside professional musicians.

Let's take action full of courage Heal a broken heart with love Our lif'es a gift from high above Here I am - with a right for love

At the General Assembly in July 2008, the song had its powerful public premiere. Since then, there have been several other occasions: in the Caldonazzo holiday camp, children performed "Here I Am" in the context of a peace project; in Nepal children performed it in the context of a continent- wide child protection workshop; ideas for promoting activities are on the agenda of different national associations; and a Spanish version of the song is being planned in Latin America.

Let's keep this passion alive and use the power of music to touch hearts and souls, to invite participation and to build a sense of community among people - with the ultimate aim of promoting the child's right to protection.

By Bianca Helfer