The Convention also sets out general measures of implementation and a clear accountability mechanism for State Parties. In ratifying the CRC, a State accepts the obligation to respect, protect and fulfil the rights enshrined it. This entails taking all appropriate legislative, administrative and other measures (Article 4 of the CRC) for the progressive realisation of children’s rights in their jurisdiction. The concept of progressive realisation of rights is important – the Convention emphasises that a State must move as rapidly as possible to realise all children’s rights while recognising that this can only happen within the limits of a country’s means and resources.

States are accountable for the implementation of the Convention through regular and periodic reporting on measures taken for child rights realisation. These measures are the subject of regular report by State Parties to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child. The Committee examines State reports, as well as any alternative reports submitted by non-government actors. The Committee meets with representatives of the reporting State for constructive dialogue and then issues its Concluding Observations, which discuss a State’s progress in implementing the CRC, factors limiting progress, issues of concern and recommendations.

The State reports and the Concluding Observations from the Committee are very useful sources of information in development programming. These can be found on the Committee’s website. Alternative reports prepared by non-state actors and submitted to the Committee are also very useful in assessing areas of strength and challenges.

Finally, the Committee also issues General Comments on key thematic issues in the CRC, e.g. HIV/AIDS and the rights of the child, adolescent health, or children’s rights in juvenile justice, to name a few. The main purpose of a General Comment is to promote effective implementation of the Convention by helping State Parties to understand the intent of the Convention and to assist States parties in fulfilling their reporting obligations.

Use the links provided here to go to the website of the Committee to find the information relating to the country you work in or with, and the issues that are of most relevance to your work.