What is the goal of UNCRC Article 42?
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is an almost universally agreed-upon set of non-negotiable standards and obligations to protect and uphold the rights of children worldwide. This binding document, which Save the Children's founder had a hand in crafting, articulates a comprehensive set of rights for children - everything from the right to education, to the right to be heard, to the right to play. Among these vital articles is Article 42, which mandates that the tenets of the UNCRC should be widely known and understood by adults and children alike.
The significance of the UNCRC and raising awareness of children's rights
Why does the UNCRC matter so much? Simply put, it's the foundation upon which we build a world that respects, protects, and fulfils children's rights. The UNCRC provides its ratifying nations with the minimum rights they should ensure young people have, their obligations in upholding these rights, and guidelines on how to do so. With children globally not all enjoying the rights they deserve, it’s clear that nations just signing the convention isn’t sufficient in ensuring they uphold its articles.
Raising awareness of these rights is not just about education; it's about empowerment, accountability, and transformation. When people understand how the rights of children are being infringed upon, they are more likely to respect and advocate for them. Take, for instance, Save the Children Australia's initiatives in Laos.
Through educating communities and government officials about child rights, Save the Children Australia has helped build and strengthen new systems to protect children from abuse, showcasing how awareness can lead to tangible improvements in children's lives. We've seen a significant shift in attitudes and practices - from a reduction in corporal punishment to increased engagement in child protection systems. This is awareness in action. Making a real difference in the lives of young people.
Who is responsible for promoting awareness of children's rights?
Children are both our present and future and ensuring their rights are protected is the collective responsibility of every member of society. As well as our individual obligation, certain stakeholders have a bigger responsibility to raise awareness including:
Governments
They are tasked with integrating the principles of the UNCRC into national legislation and policies, ensuring that children's rights are upheld at all levels of society. They also have a responsibility to ensure these legislations are correctly followed and to provide initiatives and institutions supporting children’s rights with necessary resources.
Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
NGOs like Save the Children Australia can play a crucial role in both raising awareness and driving change. As well as directly helping children through targeted initiatives, NGOs can share stories highlighting shortcomings in current infrastructure and leverage their audience and supporters to advocate for change.
As part of our effort to help raise awareness for the UNCRC, we deliver our services in Australia under the name 54 Reasons, representing the 54 Articles of the Convention. We’ve also created guides like this one on each of the articles and have further raised awareness for issues by creating reports and resources that provide the public and government with actionable changes needed to support children’s rights in Australia and abroad.
The Media
Through disseminating information in the news, social media, and other sources, the media can amplify the message of children's rights, reaching a wide audience and sparking important conversations.
How can you make a difference?
Every one of us can contribute to raising awareness and supporting children's rights. Whether it's through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your support helps us continue our vital work. Join us in our mission to ensure that every child, regardless of their circumstances, knows their rights and has the opportunity to reach their potential.
Learn more about our work and donate today to help uphold the rights of children everywhere.