Valid from 31/01/2024
For the purposes of the present Convention, a child means every human being below the age of eighteen years.
1SStates Parties shall respect and ensure the rights set forth in the present Convention to each child within their jurisdiction without discrimination of any kind, irrespective of the child’s or his or her parent’s or legal guardian’s race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national, ethnic or social origin, property, disability, birth or other status.
Commencement Information
I1Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(2_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that the child is protected against all forms of discrimination or punishment on the basis of the status, activities, expressed opinions, or beliefs of the child’s parents, legal guardians, or family members.
Commencement Information
I2Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(2_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SIn all actions concerning children, whether undertaken by public or private social welfare institutions, courts of law, administrative authorities or legislative bodies, the best interests of the child shall be a primary consideration.
Commencement Information
I3Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties undertake to ensure the child such protection and care as is necessary for his or her well-being, taking into account the rights and duties of his or her parents, legal guardians, or other individuals legally responsible for him or her, and, to this end, shall take all appropriate legislative and administrative measures.
Commencement Information
I4Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SStates Parties shall ensure that the institutions, services and facilities responsible for the care or protection of children shall conform with the standards established by competent authorities, particularly in the areas of safety, health, in the number and suitability of their staff, as well as competent supervision.
Commencement Information
I5Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
States Parties shall undertake all appropriate legislative, administrative, and other measures for the implementation of the rights recognized in the present Convention. With regard to economic, social and cultural rights, States Parties shall undertake such measures to the maximum extent of their available resources and, where needed, within the framework of international co-operation.
States Parties shall respect the responsibilities, rights and duties of parents or, where applicable, the members of the extended family or community as provided for by local custom, legal guardians or other persons legally responsible for the child, to provide, in a manner consistent with the evolving capacities of the child, appropriate direction and guidance in the exercise by the child of the rights recognized in the present Convention.
1SStates Parties recognize that every child has the inherent right to life.
Commencement Information
I6Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(6_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall ensure to the maximum extent possible the survival and development of the child.
Commencement Information
I7Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(6_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SThe child shall be registered immediately after birth and shall have the right from birth to a name and, as far as possible, the right to know and be cared for by his or her parents.
Commencement Information
I8Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(7_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall ensure the implementation of these rights in accordance with their national law and their obligations under the relevant international instruments in this field.
Commencement Information
I9Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(7_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties undertake to respect the right of the child to preserve his or her identity, including name and family relations as recognized by law without unlawful interference.
Commencement Information
I10Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(8_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SWhere a child is illegally deprived of some or all of the elements of his or her identity, States Parties shall provide appropriate assistance and protection, with a view to speedily re-establishing his or her identity.
Commencement Information
I11Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(8_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties shall ensure that a child shall not be separated from his or her parents against their will, except when competent authorities subject to judicial review determine, in accordance with applicable law and procedures, that such separation is necessary for the best interests of the child. Such determination may be necessary in a particular case such as one involving abuse or neglect of the child by the parents, or one where the parents are living separately and a decision must be made as to the child’s place of residence.
Commencement Information
I12Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(9_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SIn any proceedings pursuant to paragraph 1 of the present article, all interested parties shall be given an opportunity to participate in the proceedings and make their views known.
Commencement Information
I13Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(9_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SStates Parties shall respect the right of the child who is separated from one or both parents to maintain personal relations and direct contact with both parents on a regular basis, except if it is contrary to the child’s best interests.
Commencement Information
I14Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(9_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SWhere such separation results from any action initiated by a State Party, such as the detention, imprisonment, exile, deportation or death (including death arising from any cause while the person is in the custody of the State) of one or both parents or of the child, that State Party shall, upon request, provide the parents, the child or, if appropriate, another member of the family with the essential information concerning the whereabouts of the absent member(s) of the family unless the provision of the information would be detrimental to the well-being of the child. States Parties shall further ensure that the submission of such a request shall of itself entail no adverse consequences for the person(s) concerned.
Commencement Information
I15Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(9_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SA child whose parents reside in different States shall have the right to maintain on a regular basis, save in exceptional circumstances personal relations and direct contacts with both parents.
Commencement Information
I16Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(10_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties shall take measures to combat the illicit transfer and non-return of children abroad.
Commencement Information
I17Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(11_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his or her own views the right to express those views freely in all matters affecting the child, the views of the child being given due weight in accordance with the age and maturity of the child.
Commencement Information
I18Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(12_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SFor this purpose, the child shall in particular be provided the opportunity to be heard in any judicial and administrative proceedings affecting the child, either directly, or through a representative or an appropriate body, in a manner consistent with the procedural rules of national law.
Commencement Information
I19Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(12_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SThe child shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of the child’s choice.
Commencement Information
I20Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(13_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SThe exercise of this right may be subject to certain restrictions, but these shall only be such as are provided by law and are necessary:
(a)For respect of the rights or reputations of others; or
(b)For the protection of national security or of public order (ordre public), or of public health or morals.
Commencement Information
I21Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(13_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties shall respect the right of the child to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.
Commencement Information
I22Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(14_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall respect the rights and duties of the parents and, when applicable, legal guardians, to provide direction to the child in the exercise of his or her right in a manner consistent with the evolving capacities of the child.
Commencement Information
I23Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(14_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SFreedom to manifest one’s religion or beliefs may be subject only to such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary to protect public safety, order, health or morals, or the fundamental rights and freedoms of others.
Commencement Information
I24Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(14_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties recognize the rights of the child to freedom of association and to freedom of peaceful assembly.
Commencement Information
I25Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(15_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SNo restrictions may be placed on the exercise of these rights other than those imposed in conformity with the law and which are necessary in a democratic society in the interests of national security or public safety, public order (ordre public), the protection of public health or morals or the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.
Commencement Information
I26Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(15_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SNo child shall be subjected to arbitrary or unlawful interference with his or her privacy, family, home or correspondence, nor to unlawful attacks on his or her honour and reputation.
Commencement Information
I27Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(16_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SThe child has the right to the protection of the law against such interference or attacks.
Commencement Information
I28Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(16_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
States Parties recognize the important function performed by the mass media and shall ensure that the child has access to information and material from a diversity of national and international sources, especially those aimed at the promotion of his or her social, spiritual and moral well-being and physical and mental health. To this end, States Parties shall:
(a)Encourage the mass media to disseminate information and material of social and cultural benefit to the child and in accordance with the spirit of article 29;
(b)Encourage international co-operation in the production, exchange and dissemination of such information and material from a diversity of cultural, national and international sources;
(c)Encourage the production and dissemination of children’s books;
(d)Encourage the mass media to have particular regard to the linguistic needs of the child who belongs to a minority group or who is indigenous;
(e)Encourage the development of appropriate guidelines for the protection of the child from information and material injurious to his or her well-being, bearing in mind the provisions of articles 13 and 18.
1SStates Parties shall use their best efforts to ensure recognition of the principle that both parents have common responsibilities for the upbringing and development of the child. Parents or, as the case may be, legal guardians, have the primary responsibility for the upbringing and development of the child. The best interests of the child will be their basic concern.
Commencement Information
I29Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(18_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SFor the purpose of guaranteeing and promoting the rights set forth in the present Convention, States Parties shall render appropriate assistance to parents and legal guardians in the performance of their child-rearing responsibilities and shall ensure the development of institutions, facilities and services for the care of children.
Commencement Information
I30Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(18_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SStates Parties shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that children of working parents have the right to benefit from child-care services and facilities for which they are eligible.
Commencement Information
I31Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(18_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties shall take all appropriate legislative, administrative, social and educational measures to protect the child from all forms of physical or mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment, maltreatment or exploitation, including sexual abuse, while in the care of parent(s), legal guardian(s) or any other person who has the care of the child.
Commencement Information
I32Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(19_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SSuch protective measures should, as appropriate, include effective procedures for the establishment of social programmes to provide necessary support for the child and for those who have the care of the child, as well as for other forms of prevention and for identification, reporting, referral, investigation, treatment and follow-up of instances of child maltreatment described heretofore, and, as appropriate, for judicial involvement.
Commencement Information
I33Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(19_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SA child temporarily or permanently deprived of his or her family environment, or in whose own best interests cannot be allowed to remain in that environment, shall be entitled to special protection and assistance provided by the State.
Commencement Information
I34Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(20_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall in accordance with their national laws ensure alternative care for such a child.
Commencement Information
I35Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(20_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SSuch care could include, inter alia, foster placement, kafalah of Islamic law, adoption or if necessary placement in suitable institutions for the care of children. When considering solutions, due regard shall be paid to the desirability of continuity in a child’s upbringing and to the child’s ethnic, religious, cultural and linguistic background.
Commencement Information
I36Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(20_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
States Parties that recognize and/or permit the system of adoption shall ensure that the best interests of the child shall be the paramount consideration and they shall:
(a)Ensure that the adoption of a child is authorized only by competent authorities who determine, in accordance with applicable law and procedures and on the basis of all pertinent and reliable information, that the adoption is permissible in view of the child’s status concerning parents, relatives and legal guardians and that, if required, the persons concerned have given their informed consent to the adoption on the basis of such counselling as may be necessary;
(b)Recognize that inter-country adoption may be considered as an alternative means of child’s care, if the child cannot be placed in a foster or an adoptive family or cannot in any suitable manner be cared for in the child’s country of origin;
(c)Ensure that the child concerned by inter-country adoption enjoys safeguards and standards equivalent to those existing in the case of national adoption;
(d)Take all appropriate measures to ensure that, in inter-country adoption, the placement does not result in improper financial gain for those involved in it;
(e)Promote, where appropriate, the objectives of the present article by concluding bilateral or multilateral arrangements, and endeavour, within this framework, to ensure that the placement of the child in another country is carried out by competent authorities or organs.
1SStates Parties shall take appropriate measures to ensure that a child who is seeking refugee status or who is considered a refugee in accordance with applicable international or domestic law and procedures shall, whether unaccompanied or accompanied by his or her parents or by any other person, receive appropriate protection and humanitarian assistance in the enjoyment of applicable rights set forth in the present Convention and in other international human rights or humanitarian instruments to which the said States are Parties.
Commencement Information
I37Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(22_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SFor this purpose, States Parties shall provide, as they consider appropriate, co-operation in any efforts by the United Nations and other competent intergovernmental organisations or non-governmental organisations co-operating with the United Nations to protect and assist such a child and to trace the parents or other members of the family of any refugee child in order to obtain information necessary for reunification with his or her family. In cases where no parents or other members of the family can be found, the child shall be accorded the same protection as any other child permanently or temporarily deprived of his or her family environment for any reason, as set forth in the present Convention.
Commencement Information
I38Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(22_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties recognize that a mentally or physically disabled child should enjoy a full and decent life, in conditions which ensure dignity, promote self-reliance and facilitate the child’s active participation in the community.
Commencement Information
I39Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(23_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties recognize the right of the disabled child to special care and shall encourage and ensure the extension, subject to available resources, to the eligible child and those responsible for his or her care, of assistance for which application is made and which is appropriate to the child’s condition and to the circumstances of the parents or others caring for the child.
Commencement Information
I40Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(23_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SRecognizing the special needs of a disabled child, assistance extended in accordance with paragraph 2 of the present article shall be provided free of charge, whenever possible, taking into account the financial resources of the parents or others caring for the child, and shall be designed to ensure that the disabled child has effective access to and receives education, training, health care services, rehabilitation services, preparation for employment and recreation opportunities in a manner conducive to the child’s achieving the fullest possible social integration and individual development, including his or her cultural and spiritual development.
Commencement Information
I41Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(23_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SStates Parties shall promote, in the spirit of international co-operation, the exchange of appropriate information in the field of preventive health care and of medical, psychological and functional treatment of disabled children, including dissemination of and access to information concerning methods of rehabilitation, education and vocational services, with the aim of enabling States Parties to improve their capabilities and skills and to widen their experience in these areas. In this regard, particular account shall be taken of the needs of developing countries.
Commencement Information
I42Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(23_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties recognize the right of the child to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health and to facilities for the treatment of illness and rehabilitation of health. States Parties shall strive to ensure that no child is deprived of his or her right of access to such health care services.
Commencement Information
I43Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(24_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall pursue full implementation of this right and, in particular, shall take appropriate measures:
(a)To diminish infant and child mortality;
(b)To ensure the provision of necessary medical assistance and health care to all children with emphasis on the development of primary health care;
(c)To combat disease and malnutrition, including within the framework of primary health care, through, inter alia, the application of readily available technology and through the provision of adequate nutritious foods and clean drinking-water, taking into consideration the dangers and risks of environmental pollution;
(d)To ensure appropriate pre-natal and post-natal health care for mothers;
(e)To ensure that all segments of society, in particular parents and children, are informed, have access to education and are supported in the use of basic knowledge of child health and nutrition, the advantages of breast-feeding, hygiene and environmental sanitation and the prevention of accidents;
(f)To develop preventive health care, guidance for parents and family planning education and services.
Commencement Information
I44Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(24_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SStates Parties shall take all effective and appropriate measures with a view to abolishing traditional practices prejudicial to the health of children.
Commencement Information
I45Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(24_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SStates Parties undertake to promote and encourage international co-operation with a view to achieving progressively the full realization of the right recognized in the present article. In this regard, particular account shall be taken of the needs of developing countries.
Commencement Information
I46Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(24_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
States Parties recognize the right of a child who has been placed by the competent authorities for the purposes of care, protection or treatment of his or her physical or mental health, to a periodic review of the treatment provided to the child and all other circumstances relevant to his or her placement.
1SStates Parties shall recognize for every child the right to benefit from social security and shall take the necessary measures to achieve the full realization of this right in accordance with their national law.
Commencement Information
I47Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(26_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SThe benefits should, where appropriate, be granted, taking into account the resources and the circumstances of the child and persons having responsibility for the maintenance of the child, as well as any other consideration relevant to an application for benefits made by or on behalf of the child.
Commencement Information
I48Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(26_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties recognize the right of every child to a standard of living adequate for the child’s physical, mental, spiritual, moral and social development.
Commencement Information
I49Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(27_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SThe parent(s) or others responsible for the child have the primary responsibility to secure, within their abilities and financial capacities, the conditions of living necessary for the child’s development.
Commencement Information
I50Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(27_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SStates Parties, in accordance with national conditions and within their means, shall take appropriate measures to assist parents and others responsible for the child to implement this right and shall in case of need provide material assistance and support programmes, particularly with regard to nutrition, clothing and housing.
Commencement Information
I51Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(27_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SStates Parties shall take all appropriate measures to secure the recovery of maintenance for the child from the parents or other persons having financial responsibility for the child, both within the State Party and from abroad. In particular, where the person having financial responsibility for the child lives in a State different from that of the child, States Parties shall promote the making of appropriate arrangements.
Commencement Information
I52Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(27_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties recognize the right of the child to education, and with a view to achieving this right progressively and on the basis of equal opportunity, they shall, in particular:
(a)Make primary education compulsory and available free to all;
(b)Encourage the development of different forms of secondary education, including general and vocational education, make them available and accessible to every child, and take appropriate measures such as the introduction of free education and offering financial assistance in case of need;
(c)Make higher education accessible to all on the basis of capacity by every appropriate means;
(d)Make educational and vocational information and guidance available and accessible to all children;
(e)Take measures to encourage regular attendance at schools and the reduction of drop-out rates.
Commencement Information
I53Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(28_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that school discipline is administered in a manner consistent with the child’s human dignity and in conformity with the present Convention.
Commencement Information
I54Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(28_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SStates Parties shall promote and encourage international co-operation in matters relating to education, in particular with a view to contributing to the elimination of ignorance and illiteracy throughout the world and facilitating access to scientific and technical knowledge and modern teaching methods. In this regard, particular account shall be taken of the needs of developing countries.
Commencement Information
I55Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(28_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties agree that the education of the child shall be directed to:
(a)The development of the child’s personality, talents and mental and physical abilities to their fullest potential;
(b)The development of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and for the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations;
(c)The development of respect for the child’s parents, his or her own cultural identity, language and values, for the national values of the country in which the child is living, the country from which he or she may originate, and for civilizations different from his or her own;
(d)The preparation of the child for responsible life in a free society, in the spirit of understanding, peace, tolerance, equality of sexes, and friendship among all peoples, ethnic, national and religious groups and persons of indigenous origin;
(e)The development of respect for the natural environment.
Commencement Information
I56Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(29_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SNo part of the present article or article 28 shall be construed so as to interfere with the liberty of individuals and bodies to establish and direct educational institutions, subject always to the observance of the principle set forth in paragraph 1 of the present article and to the requirements that the education given in such institutions shall conform to such minimum standards as may be laid down by the State.
Commencement Information
I57Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(29_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
In those States in which ethnic, religious or linguistic minorities or persons of indigenous origin exist, a child belonging to such a minority or who is indigenous shall not be denied the right, in community with other members of his or her group, to enjoy his or her own culture, to profess and practise his or her own religion, or to use his or her own language.
1SStates Parties recognize the right of the child to rest and leisure, to engage in play and recreational activities appropriate to the age of the child and to participate freely in cultural life and the arts.
Commencement Information
I58Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(31_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall respect and promote the right of the child to participate fully in cultural and artistic life and shall encourage the provision of appropriate and equal opportunities for cultural, artistic, recreational and leisure activity.
Commencement Information
I59Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(31_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties recognize the right of the child to be protected from economic exploitation and from performing any work that is likely to be hazardous or to interfere with the child’s education, or to be harmful to the child’s health or physical, mental, spiritual, moral or social development.
Commencement Information
I60Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(32_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall take legislative, administrative, social and educational measures to ensure the implementation of the present article. To this end, and having regard to the relevant provisions of other international instruments, States Parties shall in particular:
(a)Provide for a minimum age or minimum ages for admission to employment;
(b)Provide for appropriate regulation of the hours and conditions of employment;
(c)Provide for appropriate penalties or other sanctions to ensure the effective enforcement of the present article.
Commencement Information
I61Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(32_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
States Parties shall take all appropriate measures, including legislative, administrative, social and educational measures, to protect children from the illicit use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances as defined in the relevant international treaties, and to prevent the use of children in the illicit production and trafficking of such substances.
States Parties undertake to protect the child from all forms of sexual exploitation and sexual abuse. For these purposes, States Parties shall in particular take all appropriate national measures to prevent:
(a)The inducement or coercion of a child to engage in any unlawful sexual activity;
(b)The exploitative use of children in prostitution or other unlawful sexual practices;
(c)The exploitative use of children in pornographic performances and materials.
States Parties shall take all appropriate national measures to prevent the abduction of, the sale of or traffic in children for any purpose or in any form.
States Parties shall protect the child against all other forms of exploitation prejudicial to any aspects of the child’s welfare.
States Parties shall ensure that:
(a)No child shall be subjected to torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Neither capital punishment nor life imprisonment without possibility of release shall be imposed for offences committed by persons below eighteen years of age;
(b)No child shall be deprived of his or her liberty unlawfully or arbitrarily. The arrest, detention or imprisonment of a child shall be in conformity with the law and shall be used only as a measure of last resort and for the shortest appropriate period of time;
(c)Every child deprived of liberty shall be treated with humanity and respect for the inherent dignity of the human person, and in a manner which takes into account the needs of persons of his or her age. In particular, every child deprived of liberty shall be separated from adults unless it is considered in the child’s best interest not to do so and shall have the right to maintain contact with his or her family through correspondence and visits, save in exceptional circumstances;
(d)Every child deprived of his or her liberty shall have the right to prompt access to legal and other appropriate assistance, as well as the right to challenge the legality of the deprivation of his or her liberty before a court or other competent, independent and impartial authority, and to a prompt decision on any such action.
1SStates Parties undertake to respect and to ensure respect for rules of international humanitarian law applicable to them in armed conflicts which are relevant to the child.
Commencement Information
I62Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(38_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall take all feasible measures to ensure that persons who have not attained the age of fifteen years do not take a direct part in hostilities.
Commencement Information
I63Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(38_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SIn accordance with their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect the civilian population in armed conflicts, States Parties shall take all feasible measures to ensure protection and care of children who are affected by an armed conflict.
Commencement Information
I64Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(38_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
States Parties shall take all appropriate measures to promote physical and psychological recovery and social reintegration of a child victim of: any form of neglect, exploitation, or abuse; torture or any other form of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment; or armed conflicts. Such recovery and reintegration shall take place in an environment which fosters the health, self-respect and dignity of the child.
1SStates Parties recognize the right of every child alleged as, accused of, or recognized as having infringed the penal law to be treated in a manner consistent with the promotion of the child’s sense of dignity and worth, which reinforces the child’s respect for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of others and which takes into account the child’s age and the desirability of promoting the child’s reintegration and the child’s assuming a constructive role in society.
Commencement Information
I65Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(40_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2STo this end, and having regard to the relevant provisions of international instruments, States Parties shall, in particular, ensure that:
(a)No child shall be alleged as, be accused of, or recognized as having infringed the penal law by reason of acts or omissions that were not prohibited by national or international law at the time they were committed;
(b)Every child alleged as or accused of having infringed the penal law has at least the following guarantees:
(i)To be presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law;
(ii)To be informed promptly and directly of the charges against him or her, and, if appropriate, through his or her parents or legal guardians, and to have legal or other appropriate assistance in the preparation and presentation of his or her defence;
(iii)To have the matter determined without delay by a competent, independent and impartial authority or judicial body in a fair hearing according to law, in the presence of legal or other appropriate assistance and, unless it is considered not to be in the best interest of the child, in particular, taking into account his or her age or situation, his or her parents or legal guardians;
(iv)Not to be compelled to give testimony or to confess guilt; to examine or have examined adverse witnesses and to obtain the participation and examination of witnesses on his or her behalf under conditions of equality;
(v)If considered to have infringed the penal law, to have this decision and any measures imposed in consequence thereof reviewed by a higher competent, independent and impartial authority or judicial body according to law;
(vi)To have the free assistance of an interpreter if the child cannot understand or speak the language used;
(vii)To have his or her privacy fully respected at all stages of the proceedings.
Commencement Information
I66Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(40_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SStates Parties shall seek to promote the establishment of laws, procedures, authorities and institutions specifically applicable to children alleged as, accused of, or recognized as having infringed the penal law, and, in particular:
(a)The establishment of a minimum age below which children shall be presumed not to have the capacity to infringe the penal law;
(b)Whenever appropriate and desirable, measures for dealing with such children without resorting to judicial proceedings, providing that human rights and legal safeguards are fully respected.
Commencement Information
I67Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(40_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SA variety of dispositions, such as care, guidance and supervision orders; counselling; probation; foster care; education and vocational training programmes and other alternatives to institutional care shall be available to ensure that children are dealt with in a manner appropriate to their well-being and proportionate both to their circumstances and the offence.
Commencement Information
I68Sch. Pt. 1(crossheading)(40_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
Nothing in the present Convention shall affect any provisions which are more conducive to the realization of the rights of the child and which may be contained in:
(a)The law of a State Party; or
(b)International law in force for that State.
States Parties undertake to make the principles and provisions of the Convention widely known, by appropriate and active means, to adults and children alike.
1SArmed groups that are distinct from the armed forces of a State should not, under any circumstances, recruit or use in hostilities persons under the age of 18 years.
Commencement Information
I69Sch. Pt. 2(crossheading)(1_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall take all feasible measures to prevent such recruitment and use, including the adoption of legal measures necessary to prohibit and criminalize such practices.
Commencement Information
I70Sch. Pt. 2(crossheading)(1_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SThe application of the present article under this Protocol shall not affect the legal status of any party to an armed conflict.
Commencement Information
I71Sch. Pt. 2(crossheading)(1_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
Nothing in the present Protocol shall be construed as precluding provisions in the law of a State Party or in international instruments and international humanitarian law that are more conducive to the realization of the rights of the child.
1SEach State Party shall take all necessary legal, administrative and other measures to ensure the effective implementation and enforcement of the provisions of this Protocol within its jurisdiction.
Commencement Information
I72Sch. Pt. 2(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties undertake to make the principles and provisions of the present Protocol widely known and promoted by appropriate means, to adults and children alike.
Commencement Information
I73Sch. Pt. 2(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SStates Parties shall take all feasible measures to ensure that persons within their jurisdiction recruited or used in hostilities contrary to this Protocol are demobilized or otherwise released from service. States Parties shall, when necessary, accord to such persons all appropriate assistance for their physical and psychological recovery and their social reintegration.
Commencement Information
I74Sch. Pt. 2(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties shall cooperate in the implementation of the present Protocol, including in the prevention of any activity contrary to the Protocol and in the rehabilitation and social reintegration of persons who are victims of acts contrary to this Protocol, including through technical cooperation and financial assistance. Such assistance and cooperation will be undertaken in consultation with concerned States Parties and relevant international organizations.
Commencement Information
I75Sch. Pt. 2(crossheading)(4_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties in a position to do so shall provide such assistance through existing multilateral, bilateral or other programmes or, inter alia, through a voluntary fund established in accordance with the rules of the General Assembly.
Commencement Information
I76Sch. Pt. 2(crossheading)(4_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
States Parties shall prohibit the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography as provided for by the present Protocol.
For the purposes of the present Protocol:
(a)Sale of children means any act or transaction whereby a child is transferred by any person or group of persons to another for remuneration or any other consideration;
(b)Child prostitution means the use of a child in sexual activities for remuneration or any other form of consideration;
(c)Child pornography means any representation, by whatever means, of a child engaged in real or simulated explicit sexual activities or any representation of the sexual parts of a child for primarily sexual purposes.
1SEach State Party shall ensure that, as a minimum, the following acts and activities are fully covered under its criminal or penal law, whether these offences are committed domestically or transnationally or on an individual or organized basis:
(a)In the context of sale of children as defined in article 2:
(i)The offering, delivering or accepting, by whatever means, a child for the purpose of:
a.Sexual exploitation of the child;
b.Transfer of organs of the child for profit;
c.Engagement of the child in forced labour;
(ii)Improperly inducing consent, as an intermediary, for the adoption of a child in violation of applicable international legal instruments on adoption;
(b)Offering, obtaining, procuring or providing a child for child prostitution, as defined in article 2;
(c)Producing, distributing, disseminating, importing, exporting, offering, selling or possessing for the above purposes child pornography as defined in article 2.
Commencement Information
I77Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SSubject to the provisions of a State Party’s national law, the same shall apply to an attempt to commit any of these acts and to complicity or participation in any of these acts.
Commencement Information
I78Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SEach State Party shall make such offences punishable by appropriate penalties that take into account their grave nature.
Commencement Information
I79Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SSubject to the provisions of its national law, each State Party shall take measures, where appropriate, to establish the liability of legal persons for offences established in paragraph 1 of the present article. Subject to the legal principles of the State Party, this liability of legal persons may be criminal, civil or administrative.
Commencement Information
I80Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
5SStates Parties shall take all appropriate legal and administrative measures to ensure that all persons involved in the adoption of a child act in conformity with applicable international legal instruments.
Commencement Information
I81Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(3_paragraph)(5) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SEach State Party shall take such measures as may be necessary to establish its jurisdiction over the offences referred to in article 3, paragraph 1, when the offences are committed in its territory or on board a ship or aircraft registered in that State.
Commencement Information
I82Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(4_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SEach State Party may take such measures as may be necessary to establish its jurisdiction over the offences referred to in article 3, paragraph 1, in the following cases:
(a)When the alleged offender is a national of that State or a person who has his habitual residence in its territory;
(b)When the victim is a national of that State.
Commencement Information
I83Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(4_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SEach State Party shall also take such measures as may be necessary to establish its jurisdiction over the above-mentioned offences when the alleged offender is present in its territory and it does not extradite him or her to another State Party on the ground that the offence has been committed by one of its nationals.
Commencement Information
I84Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(4_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SThis Protocol does not exclude any criminal jurisdiction exercised in accordance with internal law.
Commencement Information
I85Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(4_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties shall afford one another the greatest measure of assistance in connection with investigations or criminal proceedings brought in respect of the offences set forth in article 3, paragraph 1, including assistance in obtaining evidence at their disposal necessary for the proceedings.
Commencement Information
I86Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(5_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall carry out their obligations under paragraph 1 of the present article in conformity with any treaties or other arrangements on mutual legal assistance that may exist between them. In the absence of such treaties or arrangements, States Parties shall afford one another assistance in accordance with their domestic law.
Commencement Information
I87Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(5_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
States Parties shall, subject to the provisions of their national law:
(a)Take measures to provide for the seizure and confiscation, as appropriate, of:
(i)Goods such as materials, assets and other instrumentalities used to commit or facilitate offences under the present Protocol;
(ii)Proceeds derived from such offences;
(b)Execute requests from another State Party for seizure or confiscation of goods or proceeds referred to in subparagraph (a)(i);
(c)Take measures aimed at closing, on a temporary or definitive basis, premises used to commit such offences.
1SStates Parties shall adopt appropriate measures to protect the rights and interests of child victims of the practices prohibited under the present Protocol at all stages of the criminal justice process, in particular by:
(a)Recognizing the vulnerability of child victims and adapting procedures to recognize their special needs, including their special needs as witnesses;
(b)Informing child victims of their rights, their role and the scope, timing and progress of the proceedings and of the disposition of their cases;
(c)Allowing the views, needs and concerns of child victims to be presented and considered in proceedings where their personal interests are affected, in a manner consistent with the procedural rules of national law;
(d)Providing appropriate support services to child victims throughout the legal process;
(e)Protecting, as appropriate, the privacy and identity of child victims and taking measures in accordance with national law to avoid the inappropriate dissemination of information that could lead to the identification of child victims;
(f)Providing, in appropriate cases, for the safety of child victims, as well as that of their families and witnesses on their behalf, from intimidation and retaliation;
(g)Avoiding unnecessary delay in the disposition of cases and the execution of orders or decrees granting compensation to child victims.
Commencement Information
I88Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(7_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall ensure that uncertainty as to the actual age of the victim shall not prevent the initiation of criminal investigations, including investigations aimed at establishing the age of the victim.
Commencement Information
I89Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(7_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SStates Parties shall ensure that, in the treatment by the criminal justice system of children who are victims of the offences described in the present Protocol, the best interest of the child shall be a primary consideration.
Commencement Information
I90Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(7_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SStates Parties shall take measures to ensure appropriate training, in particular legal and psychological training, for the persons who work with victims of the offences prohibited under the present Protocol.
Commencement Information
I91Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(7_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
5SStates Parties shall, in appropriate cases, adopt measures in order to protect the safety and integrity of those persons and/or organizations involved in the prevention and/or protection and rehabilitation of victims of such offences.
Commencement Information
I92Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(7_paragraph)(5) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
6SNothing in the present article shall be construed as prejudicial to or inconsistent with the rights of the accused to a fair and impartial trial.
Commencement Information
I93Sch. para. 6 in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
1SStates Parties shall adopt or strengthen, implement and disseminate laws, administrative measures, social policies and programmes to prevent the offences referred to in the present Protocol. Particular attention shall be given to protect children who are especially vulnerable to such practices.
Commencement Information
I94Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(8_paragraph)(1) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
2SStates Parties shall promote awareness in the public at large, including children, through information by all appropriate means, education and training, about the preventive measures and harmful effects of the offences referred to in the present Protocol. In fulfilling their obligations under this article, States Parties shall encourage the participation of the community and, in particular, children and child victims, in such information and education and training programmes, including at the international level.
Commencement Information
I95Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(8_paragraph)(2) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
3SStates Parties shall take all feasible measures with the aim of ensuring all appropriate assistance to victims of such offences, including their full social reintegration and their full physical and psychological recovery.
Commencement Information
I96Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(8_paragraph)(3) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SStates Parties shall ensure that all child victims of the offences described in the present Protocol have access to adequate procedures to seek, without discrimination, compensation for damages from those legally responsible.
Commencement Information
I97Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(8_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
5SStates Parties shall take appropriate measures aimed at effectively prohibiting the production and dissemination of material advertising the offences described in the present Protocol.
Commencement Information
I98Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(8_paragraph)(5) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
4SStates Parties in a position to do so shall provide financial, technical or other assistance through existing multilateral, regional, bilateral or other programmes.
Commencement Information
I99Sch. Pt. 3(crossheading)(9_paragraph)(4) in force at 31.1.2024 as appointed by S.S.I. 2024/13, reg. 2, see s. 47(2)(b)
Nothing in the present Protocol shall affect any provisions that are more conducive to the realization of the rights of the child and that may be contained in:
(a)The law of a State Party;
(b)International law in force for that State.