Like all humans, children have rights. In fact, upholding children’s rights is essential – first, because they are especially vulnerable, and second, because their healthy development is crucial to the growth of any society.

On November 20, 1989, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention of the Rights of the Child (CRC). It came into force on September 2, 1990. The CRC is a universal treaty agreed upon by 193 State Parties, and Canada is part of this treaty.

The CRC, which defines a “child” as anyone under 18 years old, outlines the rights that children everywhere have: The right to survival; the right to develop to the fullest; the right to protection from harm, neglect and exploitation; and the right to participate fully in family, cultural and social life (Families Canada).

With the fulfillment of the CRC, every child is recognized as a full person. Children are now true subjects of the law, but deserve special protection because of their particular vulnerability.

An important thing to note is that children’s rights do not undermine parental authority. Children’s rights reinforce parents’ care to ensure a child’s healthy development.

National Child Day

To commemorate the adoption of the CRC, National Child Day is celebrated on November 20 across Canada. This celebration highlights Canada’s commitment to ensure that all children are treated with dignity and respect.

Children’s Rights in Canada – Family Life in Canada

Children’s Rights

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (articles 1-54) state that (summarized):

1. Children have the right to be alive, have a name, a nationality, and to live with a family that cares for them.
2. They have the right to health care, clean water, nutritious food, clothing, and a safe place to live.
3. Children have the right to be protected from harm, both physically and mentally. They have the right to help if they’re being neglected, or treated badly.
4. Children with a disability have the right to special care and education.
5. Children have the right to practice and choose their own religion and beliefs.
6. They can practice their own culture, and speak their own language.
7. They have rights to a justice system that respects their rights.
8. Children and their families have the right to help from the government if they are in need.
9. Children have the right to information and a good quality education.
10. They have the right to privacy and to choose their own friends and join groups, as long as they’re not harmful.
11. They have rights to play and rest.
12. Children have the right to give their opinion and have adults listen to them.

Our children are our future. We should ensure that they are protected, nurtured, and given opportunities to reach their full potential. The CRC is an essential step towards ensuring that all children, all over the world, regardless of race or creed, have a good chance in life.
 
Sources: Convention of the Rights of the Child, UNICEF; Children’s Rights, Families Canada; and The Convention on the Rights of the Child, Government of Canada. Accessed August 27, 2024.