Category: Article of the Week

Articles 37 and 40 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) protect the rights of children in the justice system. Article 37 ensures that children are never subjected to torture or cruel treatment and are only detained as a last resort, for the shortest time possible, and always treated with dignity and respect. Article 40 focuses on giving children accused of breaking the law the right to fair treatment. It says children should be helped to understand what’s happening, have access to legal support, and be treated in a way that respects their age, rights, and potential to make positive changes. These rights aim to protect children and give them the chance to grow, learn, and move forward in a supportive environment.

In P2D, we explored Article 15 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which says that children have the right to meet with friends and join groups or clubs, as long as it’s safe and respectful of others. We made a video to help explain how this right gives children a voice and helps them feel part of their communities. Our class talked about how being part of a group can build confidence, friendships, and teamwork. We believe it’s important that all children have the chance to connect with others and be included.

In P1R, we learned about Article 23 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which says that children with disabilities have the right to live a full and decent life with dignity and independence. They should receive the support they need to take part in education and community life. We created a video to help explain how this article helps make sure all children, no matter their abilities, are included and given the same opportunities as everyone else. Our class talked about how important it is to be understanding, inclusive, and to celebrate everyone’s strengths.

In P2D, we explored Article 9 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which says that children have the right to live with their parents unless it is not safe for them. If children are separated from one or both parents, they have the right to stay in contact with them, as long as it’s in their best interests. We created a video to help explain this right and why it’s important for children to feel loved, supported, and connected to their families. Our class discussed how families can look different, but every child deserves to feel safe and cared for.

In P7Y, we learned about Article 34 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which protects children from all forms of sexual abuse and exploitation. We created a video to help explain why this right is so important and how it ensures that children are kept safe, respected, and protected. We talked about the importance of speaking up, trusted adults, and how everyone in the community has a role in keeping children safe. Our class feels strongly that every child should grow up feeling secure and cared for, and we hope our video helps raise awareness of this vital right.

In P4S, we explored Article 7 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which says that every child has the right to a name, a nationality, and to know and be cared for by their parents. We made a video to explain how these rights help shape a child’s identity and give them a sense of belonging. We learned that having a name and nationality is not just about legal documents—it’s about being recognised and valued. Our class enjoyed learning how this article helps protect children’s identities and connects them to their families and communities.

In P6F, we learned about Article 30 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which says that every child has the right to enjoy their own culture, practice their own religion, and use their own language—especially if they belong to a minority or Indigenous group. We created a video to help explain why this right is so important and how it helps children feel proud of who they are. Our class talked about how celebrating different cultures makes our communities stronger, and we hope our video encourages everyone to respect and value each other’s backgrounds.

In P6R, we recently explored Article 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which emphasizes that governments must take all appropriate measures to implement children’s rights. This includes aligning national laws with UNCRC standards, prioritizing children’s needs in budgets, and collaborating with organizations to execute child-centered strategies. Our class created a video to explain how this article ensures that children’s rights are not just promises but are actively protected and fulfilled by governments. We hope our video helps others understand the importance of Article 4 in safeguarding children’s rights worldwide.

Article 8 of the UNCRC says that every child has the right to a name, a nationality, and a family. These things make up your identity, which is who you are. No one should take them away from you. If something happens and you lose part of your identity, like your name or family ties, the government should help you get it back. This right helps make sure you always know who you are and where you belong.

See P1B’s video showing how they raised awareness of children’s rights and article 8:

Article 3 of the UNCRC says that adults should always think about what is best for children when making decisions. This means that parents, teachers, and leaders must make sure that children are safe, happy, and well cared for. If a rule or decision affects children, it should help them and not harm them. Their needs should always come first!

See P3M’s video showing how they raised awareness of children’s rights and article 3: