They are abandoned. They do not get a chance to step in a school. They are left to fend for themselves on the streets. They suffer from many forms of violence. They do not have access to even primary healthcare. They are subjected to cruel and inhumane treatments every day. They are children – innocent, young and beautiful – who are deprived of their rights.
These rights encompass freedom of children and their civil rights, family environment, necessary healthcare and welfare, education, leisure and cultural activities and special protection measures. The UNCRC outlines the fundamental human rights that should be afforded to children in four broad classifications that suitably cover all civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights of every child:
In the history of human rights, the rights of children are the most ratified. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) defines Child Rights as the minimum entitlements and freedoms that should be afforded to every citizen below the age of 18 regardless of race, national origin, colour, gender, language, religion, opinions, origin, wealth, birth status, disability, or other characteristics.
Right to be born
Right to live with dignity
Right to minimum standards of food, shelter and clothing
Right to health care, to safe drinking water, nutritious food, a clean and safe environment, and information to help them stay healthy
Right to be protected from all sorts of violence
Right to be protected from neglect
Right to be protected from physical and sexual abuse
Right to be protected from dangerous drugs
Right to freedom of opinion
Right to freedom of expression
Right to freedom of association
Right to information
Right to participate in any decision making that involves him/her directly or indirectly
Right to education
Right to learn
Right to relax and play
Right to all forms of development – emotional, mental and physical