Have you ever wondered what it takes for children to grow up happy, safe, and healthy? Children’s rights are specific standards that outline how children should be treated and what they are entitled to. They outline how children and young people should be treated, apply to anyone under the age of eighteen, and are recognized by almost every country in the world.
Children have the same rights as adults and some additional rights that are essential for a good childhood. These rights are part of a major worldwide agreement called the Convention on the Rights of the Child. There are 54 children’s rights which can be grouped into four themes: survival, development, participation, and protection. They are all interconnected and equally important - if one right isn’t respected, it can affect the others.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is an important agreement by countries who have promised to protect children’s rights. It explains who children are, all their rights, and the responsibilities of governments. The icons and the text are available in range of languages here.
The Convention on the Rights of the Child also outlines four principles thay guide how your rights are upheld. It's important for governments, businesses, and all adults to make sure they follow these principles. They are:
1️⃣ Non-discrimination. No-one should treat you unfairly because of who you are or where your family comes from.
2️⃣ The best interests of the child. Adults should work out what’s best for you and try to make it happen.
3️⃣ The right to life, survival and development. You should have the chance to develop and thrive.
4️⃣ The right to be heard. Adults should listen to what you think and want and take that into account when they make decisions that matter to you.
In 2021, the United Nations stated that your rights also apply online. This means that the full Convention on the Rights of the Child extends to the digital world, ensuring that all your rights are protected when you use the Internet, game apps, social media, and other platforms. Your online activities should be treated just as seriously as your offline activities.
You can learn more about your rights from the resources below. Then take a look at Know your rights online!