The CRC sets out non-negotiable and internationally recognised standards and principles in one framework that all State Parties must respect, protect, and fulfil. All children are born with exactly the same rights and these rights cannot be taken away. These rights are interdependent and of equal importance – we cannot ensure some rights at the expense of others. The CRC provides clear standards and a concrete definition of permanent entitlements for children that are universal, inalienable and indivisible.

Child participation is a fundamental right and guiding principle of the Convention. Children have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives, in keeping with their evolving capacities and levels of maturity. At the same time, the CRC expressly recognises that parents have the most important role in bringing up their children and that the State must respect the rights and responsibilities of parents in providing guidance to the child that is appropriate to his or her evolving capacities.

See the next page for a map of countries that have ratified, accepted or acceded to the CRC.