UNCRC Articles Archive

Article 11

I have the right not to be taken out of the country illegally

Governments should do all they can to stop children being taken out of their own country illegally.

Governments should work with other governments to make sure this doesn’t happen.

I have the right to be listened to and taken seriously

When adults are making decisions that affect children they should ask them what they think.

Adults should take account of children’s views when making the decision.

Children should be supported to give their views in a way that is best for them.

I have the right to find out and share information

Governments should help children get the information they need, and make sure that information they access via the internet or other media is accurate.

Governments should let children access and share information, unless it is damaging to them or someone else.

Governments shouldn’t stop children from saying what they think.

I have the right to have my own thoughts and beliefs and to choose my religion, with help from my parents

Governments should make sure no one stops children from practising their religion or beliefs. Parents should guide their children in this.

I have the right to meet with friends and join groups

Governments should make sure children can meet with friends and join groups or organisations.

Governments should make sure children can safely meet other people in public spaces to protest peacefully when they want to change things.

I have the right to keep some things private

There should be laws to make sure a child’s diary, online messages and phone calls remain private.

Governments should protect children from attacks against them, their way of life and their home.

I have the right to get information in lots of ways, as long as it’s safe

Children should be able to access information they can understand on TV, radio, in books and newspapers and on the internet.

Governments should make sure children are protected from things that could harm them.

I have the right to support from both parents, if possible

Both parents share the responsibility for bringing up children. Parents should always consider what is best for each child.

Governments should help parents by providing services to support them to be better parents.

I have the right to be protected from being hurt or badly treated

Governments should make sure that children are properly cared for. There should be laws to protect children from violence, abuse and neglect from adults.

I have the right to be looked after if I can’t live with my own family

If children cannot be looked after by their own family, they must be looked after properly, by people who respect their religion, culture and language.

Governments should make sure that alternative care is available for children