United Nations Convention on the
Rights of the Child*
Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on
November 20, 1989
"The children of the world have the right to:
-
Health care, nutrition, clothing, housing, as part of a standard
of
living adequate for physical, mental, spiritual, moral, and
social
development, with parents primarily responsible and the
state assisting only
as necessary
-
Education, including preparation for responsible life in a
free society
-
Protection against discrimination on the basis of race, sex,
religion,
etc
protection against abuse, neglect, or injury
a name,
nationality, and family relations without unlawful interference
-
Express their views in matters affecting them
-
Have their best interest be a primary consideration in all
proceedings
concerning them
-
Be protected from economic exploitation or hazardous work
-
Be protected against torture or other cruel, inhuman, or
degrading
treatment
-
Thought, conscience, religion, and freedom of expression--with
parental
direction and guidance appropriate for the child’s
evolving capacities."
* Regrettably, the United States is the only
nation in the world that has not ratified the Convention.
ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN'S SERVICES
Fighting for the Rights of Children:
Health Care * Education * Safe & Permanent Families
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