UNCRC RIGHTS 18-21

United Nations Conventions of the Rights of the Child

"The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is a legally-binding international agreement setting out the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights of every child, regardless of their race, religion or abilities."

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, or UNCRC, is the world's most widely adopted international human rights accord and the most comprehensive statement of children's rights ever written.

Article 18 - parental responsibilities and state assistance

• Both parents share responsibility for bringing up their child and should always consider what is best for the child. Governments must support parents by creating support services for children and giving parents the help they need to raise their children.

Article 19 - Protection from violence, abuse and neglect

• Governments must do all they can to ensure that children are protected from all forms of violence, abuse, neglect and bad treatment by their parents or anyone else who looks after them.

Article 20 - Children unable to live with their family

• If a child cannot be looked after by their immediate family, the government must give them special protection and assistance. This includes making sure the child is provided with alternative care that is continuous and respects the child’s culture, language and religion.

Article 21 - Adoption

• Governments must oversee the process of adoption to make sure it is safe, lawful and that it prioritises children’s best interests. Children should only be adopted outside of their country if they cannot be placed with a family in their own country.