Rights of a Child
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is in force around the world. It is designed to protect the lives and dignity of children (defined as those under age 18).
YOU HAVE A RIGHT - Print a wallet card that details the rights of young people here (PDF, 188 kb)
- the right to the highest attainable standard of health, including through access to nutritious food, clean drinking water and a safe environment
- the right to a name, a nationality and, as far as possible, to know and be cared for by his/her parents
- the right to preserve his/her identity
- the right to a standard of living adequate for physical, mental, spiritual, moral and social development
- the right to an education
- if disabled, the right to appropriate special care
- the right to information and materials from a wide variety of sources
- the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion
- the right to enjoy his/her own culture and to use his/her own language
- the right to freedom of expression
- the right to be informed of charges against the child and to have legal assistance
- the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty; not to be imprisoned unlawfully, and if imprisoned, to be treated with humanity and respect
- the right not to be subjected to torture or other cruel and inhuman treatment.
Parents and guardians can provide direction in the exercise of the child's rights, according to the child’s age and evolving capacities. All individuals under the age of 18 are covered by the Convention. 
November 20 is National Child Day in Canada, and an international day for the prevention of maltreatment of children.
Responsibilities
Parents are responsible for providing for the best interests of the child. Children/youth are responsible for respecting others' rights.
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