UNCRC

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is an international agreement between nearly every country around the world. The UNCRC has been in place since 1989, and gives children and youth all around the world more than 40 major human rights. Canada was one of the countries that signed the UNCRC and agreed to protect and promote the rights of all children and youth under age 18.

Everyone under 18 has these rights. Rights are what you should have or be able to do so you will be safe from harm and be able to grow to your full potential. You were born with these rights and no one can take them away.

Adults have the responsibility to protect youth rights and do what is best for you. You can learn about your rights and the rights of others, which will help you make positive choices in your life.

This text is not an official version of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. You can see the official version at www.unicef.org/crc.