Childhood is a critical time, a unique period where foundations are laid for a lifetime. The voices of our youngest citizens - often overlooked - will one day shape the policies and decisions of the world. As each generation faces its unique troubles and triumphs, it’s important to listen to children for input on decisions that will impact their lives. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) describes this in its twelfth article, which states that all children have the right to be listened to and taken seriously.
With a legacy spanning over 100 years, Save the Children Australia has stood as a steadfast advocate for children's welfare. Through relentless dedication and innovative approaches, our organisation has amplified the voices of countless young individuals. We’ve prepared the below guide to highlight the importance of UNCRC Article 12 and how you can help uphold it.
What does UNCRC Article 12 mean for children?
At its core, UNCRC Article 12 is a commitment to listen and consider the perspectives of our younger generation in decisions that shape their lives. This respect for their views acknowledges their capacity to contribute meaningfully to society. But why does this matter? It guarantees children a platform to freely express their views on matters affecting them, ensuring their voices carry appropriate weight, recognising and valuing children's opinions fosters their development, instilling a sense of ownership and responsibility that enriches their growth and well-being.
As well as aiding in their development, providing children with a real voice can lead to unique insights unseen by generations not experiencing their lives firsthand. Helping policy and decision-makers to make the most informed changes possible and implement solutions that benefit children.
How does Article 12 empower children in decision-making processes?
The right to express views freely covers various domains - from family decisions to judicial and administrative proceedings. This means that voices are equally heard by people in power and is especially important in cultures or areas where oppression based on characteristics such as gender, race, religion, or nationality suppresses the voice of entire groups and allows others to make decisions concerning their welfare without them.
It’s important to note that UNCRC Article 12 does not mean that children should make their own rules freely, it's about ensuring their opinions are given due weight in accordance with their age and maturity. This principle empowers children, making them active participants rather than passive subjects in their life's narrative.
'Our Voice': an example of empowerment
Save the Children Australia’s initiatives, like "Our Voice," mirror the ethos of UNCRC Article 12. Focused on listening to children and young people during emergency planning, this program emerged in response to the 2019-20 bushfires, a stark reminder of the overlooked needs of children during crises. By enabling young individuals to connect with local decision-makers, 'Our Voice' transforms them into agents of change. Their input not only improves emergency preparedness but also increases their interest level and involvement in these issues.
A collective responsibility
While initiatives like 'Our Voice' are pivotal, the onus to uphold children's right to express their views extends beyond organisations. Governments, educators, parents, and communities must all contribute to creating environments where children's voices are welcomed and integrated into policymaking and family decisions, ensuring inclusivity and diversity in all spheres of life.
By listening to younger voices in your life and supporting initiatives like Our Voice, you’re helping children everywhere be heard.
Start fostering inclusivity and diversity
Respecting children is a strategic imperative that enriches our society, paving the path toward a more inclusive, empathetic, and progressive future. Save the Children Australia champions this vision, and we welcome you to join us in creating a world where the voices of our youth inform, inspire, and instigate change. Donate, volunteer, or see other ways you can make a difference today.