UNCRC Articles Archive

Article 1

Everyone under 18 has rights

Under the UNCRC, a child means every human being below the age of 18. A child has all the rights in the UNCRC until they are 18 years old.

All children have these rights no matter what their differences are

The UNCRC applies to all under 18s, with no exceptions. Governments should make sure that every child has equal access to their rights. Governments should make sure that children are protected against discrimination.

Adults must do what’s best for me

When adults make decisions, they should think how they affect children and do what is best for them.

Governments must protect and respect my rights

Governments must make sure that children’s rights are protected. Governments must make sure other people respect children’s rights.

My family should help me know and use my own rights

I have the right to live and grow as a person

Children have the right to life. Governments should make sure that children develop and grow healthily and should protect them from things which could hurt them.

I have a right to a name and to belong to a country

Governments should make sure I have a legally registered name and a nationality. Children have the right to know who their parents are.

I have a right to an identity

Governments should respect children’s right to their own name and nationality. Their family ties should be respected.

I have a right to live with my family if they can keep me safe

Governments should only separate children from their parents if it is
the best thing for them.

Governments should make sure children can have contact with their parents if they don’t live with them.

In discussions around separation, children should be given a chance for their views to be taken into account when decisions are made.

I have the right to see my parents if they live in another country

Governments should let families move between countries so that parents and children can stay in contact.

If children have parents living in different countries, they have the right to stay in contact with both of them.