The first right is the right to non-discrimination. This means that every child should be treated equally and have the same opportunities as their peers, regardless of any differences they may have. Discrimination in any form is not acceptable and goes against the basic principles of human rights.
The second right is the right to life, survival, and development. Every child has the right to live and grow up in a safe and healthy environment, free from violence, abuse, and neglect. They also have the right to access healthcare, education, and other basic services that are essential for their development.
The third right is the right to participate. Children have the right to express their opinions, have a say in decisions that affect them, and participate in activities that promote their well-being and development. This helps to empower children and teach them valuable skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making.
The fourth right is the right to protection. Children should be protected from all forms of violence, abuse, exploitation, and neglect. This includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as child labor, trafficking, and discrimination. Governments, communities, and individuals all have a role to play in protecting children and ensuring their safety and well-being.
The fifth right is the right to family life. Every child has the right to be cared for and supported by their family, or by alternative caregivers if necessary. Families play a crucial role in the development of children, providing love, stability, and guidance that are essential for their well-being. Children who are separated from their families, whether due to poverty, conflict, or other reasons, deserve special protection and support.
The sixth right is the right to education. Every child has the right to access quality education that is free, compulsory, and tailored to their needs and abilities. Education is essential for empowering children, expanding their opportunities, and breaking the cycle of poverty and exclusion. Governments must invest in education and ensure that all children have the chance to learn and reach their full potential.
The seventh right is the right to health. Children have the right to access healthcare services that promote their physical and mental well-being, prevent illness and disease, and provide treatment and support when needed. Good health is essential for children to thrive and grow into healthy, productive adults. Governments must prioritize the health needs of children and ensure that healthcare services are available, affordable, and of high quality.
The eighth right is the right to play and leisure. Play is a fundamental right of childhood, allowing children to explore, learn, socialize, and have fun. It is through play that children develop their creativity, imagination, and problem-solving skills, while also enjoying the simple pleasures of being a child. Governments and communities should promote opportunities for children to play and engage in leisure activities, both individually and with others.
The ninth right is the right to be heard. Children have the right to express their opinions, be listened to, and have their views taken into account in decisions that affect them. This helps to build their self-esteem, confidence, and sense of agency, while also promoting mutual respect and understanding between children and adults. Adults should create safe and supportive environments where children feel comfortable speaking up and sharing their thoughts and experiences.
The tenth right is the right to privacy. Children have the right to privacy and protection of their personal information, both online and offline. This includes respecting their boundaries, keeping their secrets, and ensuring that their personal data is kept secure and confidential. Children should also be educated about the risks of privacy violations and how to protect themselves from harm.
The eleventh right is the right to protection in times of war and conflict. Children are among the most vulnerable victims of armed conflict, often suffering from violence, displacement, hunger, and loss of loved ones. They have the right to special protection and support in times of war, including access to humanitarian aid, education, healthcare, and reunification with their families. Governments, armed groups, and the international community have a responsibility to uphold the rights of children in conflict-affected areas and ensure that they are protected from harm.
The twelfth right is the right to be free from economic exploitation and work that is harmful to their health and development. Children have the right to be protected from child labor, slavery, trafficking, and other forms of exploitation that deprive them of their childhood, education, and future opportunities. Governments, businesses, and individuals all have a role to play in preventing and addressing child labor and ensuring that children are able to enjoy their rights to education, play, and development.
In conclusion, children’s rights are universal, indivisible, and interdependent, and must be respected, protected, and fulfilled by all members of society. Every child is entitled to the 12 fundamental rights outlined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and it is the responsibility of governments, communities, and individuals to ensure that these rights are upheld and promoted for the well-being and development of all children.
Nada Foundation
to help girls and women
