Every child should be safe from violence, abuse, and neglect. This fundamental right is unfortunately still not enjoyed by all children, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) Article 19 attempts to rectify this by providing a framework for individuals and governments to help keep kids safe. Our mission is to ensure that by 2030, violence against the most vulnerable children in the world is not tolerated, this guide explores how groups like Save the Children Australia work to enforce UNCRC Article 19 and what you can do to help.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger call 000.
If you think someone is at risk of domestic violence, the following helplines are available for advice and support:
Why addressing violence in the UNCRC matters
Whilst it can be difficult to discuss, violence against children is a grievous violation of their rights and a significant barrier to their development. Whether it's physical, emotional, or mental, violence and abuse hurt children deeply and often have a lasting impact, talking about issues like these is the only way to foster real change in society to protect those most vulnerable. Article 19 takes this a step further by obligating signatories to the UNCRC to implement effective measures to protect children from all forms of violence.
What’s in article 19?
UNCRC Article 19 advocates for the safeguarding of children against all forms of physical or mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment, maltreatment or exploitation. This means governments, organisations, and individuals should do everything they can in the pursuit of preventing harm, protecting kids, and stepping in when needed, more specifically on a governmental level states must keep children safe from bad treatment at home, set up programs to prevent harm, and make sure there are good laws and education to protect kids.
Article 19 provides actionable steps for governments to take to better protect children, these include the establishment of social programs to provide the necessary support, effective judicial, administrative, social, and educational measures to protect the child, and fostering an environment of awareness and prevention.
Global issues that impact the enforcement of article 19
While the principles of Article 19 are almost universally agreed upon, cultural practices, resource limitations, and a lack of awareness can all hinder the implementation of UNCRC Article 19. Save the Children Australia addresses these issues through its various global and domestic initiatives.
Real-world impact: Save the Children's initiatives
In Laos, where up to 76% of children report being subject to some form of humiliating or physical punishment in their household, Save the Children's 'Strengthening Child Protection Systems' program involves educating communities, teachers, parents, and government officials about child rights like UNCRC Article 19. We’re also helping children to speak out against abuse by establishing and supporting youth clubs and district/provincial committees that work to improve children’s rights in the legal system.
Similarly, our Domestic and Family Violence Refuges in Queensland support Article 19 by providing safe havens and comprehensive support for women and children escaping violence, whilst Family Support and Connect helps vulnerable families or children in NSW connect with relevant local support services such as domestic and family violence or myriad other challenges.
Help end violence against children
Join us in our mission to uphold UNCRC Article 19 and end tolerance for violence against children by 2030. Safely speaking up when you suspect abuse and teaching people about kids' rights are powerful ways to stop violence against children in your day-to-day life and supporting Save the Children through donations or volunteering can help us build a world where every child is safe and valued.