Child rights refer to the fundamental human rights that are specifically designated for children, defined as individuals under the age of 18. These rights are based on the understanding that children are entitled to special care, protection, and support due to their vulnerability and their need for nurturing and development. The concept of child rights is recognized and protected by various international conventions and agreements, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which is the most widely ratified human rights treaty in the world. Some of the key child rights recognized by the CRC and other international instruments include:
- Right to Life, Survival, and Development: Children have the right to life and the right to develop physically, mentally, and emotionally to their fullest potential.
- Right to Identity: Children have the right to a name, nationality, and to know and be cared for by their parents or legal guardians.
- Right to Non-Discrimination: Children have the right to be protected from all forms of discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, disability, social background, or other characteristics.
- Right to Freedom of Expression: Children have the right to express their views and opinions and to have them taken into account in matters affecting them.
- Right to Access Education: Children have the right to access free and compulsory primary education and to receive education that helps them develop their talents and abilities.
- Right to Health and Healthcare: Children have the right to enjoy the highest attainable standard of health and to access essential healthcare services.
- Right to Protection from Abuse and Exploitation: Children have the right to be protected from all forms of physical or mental violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, and child labor.
- Right to Protection in Armed Conflicts: Children have the right to special protection during armed conflicts and should not be recruited or used as child soldiers.
- Right to Play and Leisure: Children have the right to engage in play, rest, leisure, and recreational activities suitable to their age.
- Right to a Family Environment: Children have the right to grow up in a family environment, and if possible, with their parents, and to receive appropriate care when removed from their families.
- Right to Refugee and Asylum Seeker Protection: Children who are refugees or seeking asylum have the right to special protection and assistance.
- Right to Special Protection for Children with Disabilities: Children with disabilities have the right to special care, education, and support to enable them to participate fully in society.
Child rights aim to ensure that every child is treated with dignity, respect, and equality, and that their best interests are a primary consideration in all decisions affecting them. Governments, societies, and individuals have a responsibility to uphold and protect these rights, ensuring that children can grow up in a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment that fosters their well-being and development.