Human rights are basic standards to which each of us is entitled. Children are no different. In 1989, world leaders determined that children needed particular safeguards and as such proclaimed a special Convention for them. November 20th marks the day on which the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child (in 1959) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC in 1989).
The Convention on the Rights of the Child is the first legally binding international instrument to incorporate the full range of human rights. The document spells out basic human rights that children everywhere can expect which include:
- Protection (e.g., from abuse, exploitation and harmful substances)
- Provision (e.g., for education, health care and an adequate standard of living)
- Participation (e.g., listening to children’s views and respecting their evolving capacities)
- Specific protections and provisions for vulnerable populations such as Aboriginal children and children with disabilities
By ratifying the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1991, Canada made a commitment to ensuring that all children are treated with dignity and respect and have an opportunity to have a voice, be protected from harm and are provided with their basic needs, as well as an opportunity to reach their full potential.
The Kawartha-Haliburton CAS supports local, provincial and national strategies that are designed to further the progress being made on all commitments. As we recognize National Child Day here are a few ways that you can help to ensure the well-being of children and youth in our communities:
Report your concerns – Our goal is to help empower families while ensuring the safety of children.
Become a foster parent – We have a continued need for foster parents for older children, sibling groups and children with special needs.
Volunteer with a CAS or become a donor, either way you’ll be making a difference to vulnerable children.
