Children’s rights: for adults

Where do children’s rights come from and who are they for?

The UN General Assembly adopted the children's rights in the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989. Since 1992, the Convention has been in force in Germany, as well as in almost all other countries in the world (except the USA). These countries commit to protecting, providing for and involving children and adolescents. Children’s rights apply to all people up to the age of 18.

Are children’s rights human rights?

Yes. Children’s rights are human rights. Children’s rights are human rights adapted to the life situation of children and young people. The following applies to all human rights and, thus, also to children’s rights:

1. Human rights are the same for everyone. They are equally available to all people, and they exclude discrimination. They apply to all people all over the world.
2. Human rights are indivisible. There are no human rights that are more important than others.
3. Human rights are inalienable. They cannot be acquired or earned, nor can they be denied, sold or returned.

My child has rights – what does that mean exactly?

This means that your child is equal and just as important as you are. This is especially true when it is difficult to deal with your child’s wishes and interests.

Do I always have to do what my child wants?

You don’t have to do everything your child wants. Just because you have human rights, it does not mean you are allowed to do everything you like. For example, you must not violate other people’s rights. Involve your child in everyday life according to his or her age and abilities.

Do I have rights too?

Yes. Your right to educate your child is particularly important: You know what is best for your child and how things should be in your family. What is important is that your child has the right to a non-violent upbringing. As long as you raise your child within the scope of all applicable laws, the state does not interfere. You have the right to call the state to account if your child's rights are not being respected.

What are my child’s responsibilities?

There are no obligations for children under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Everyone must respect the human rights of others. If your child makes mistakes or oversteps certain boundaries, he or she still has all children’s rights.

What if my child deliberately breaks the rules?

Even if your child disregards rules, hurts others or breaks something, he or she has all children’s rights. Especially when it comes to dealing with boundary violations or mistakes, children’s rights play an important role. Protect your child from having his or her dignity violated.

Do all adults have to abide by children’s rights or only parents?

All adults must abide by the Convention. The Convention is of particular importance for all those who deal directly with children or make decisions for children. This includes, for example, educators, teachers, doctors, judges, politicians, police officers and parents.

Any further questions?

Please feel free to talk to us. We look forward to your questions, thoughts and suggestions.