Understanding Children's Rights: UNCRC in Scotland
What is the UNCRC?
Children and young people have rights that protect their well-being, ensure their voices are heard, and help them thrive. These rights are outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which Scotland is committed to upholding. The UNCRC is a global agreement that protects the rights of all children and young people.
What Are Children’s Rights?
Children’s rights ensure that all young people have what they need to grow up safe, healthy, and supported. These rights include:
- The right to be heard and have opinions taken seriously.
- The right to education, healthcare, and a safe home.
- The right to protection from harm and discrimination.
- The right to play, relax, and enjoy childhood.
Scotland is committed to making children's rights real by putting the UNCRC into law. This means governments, schools, councils, and other services must respect and protect children’s rights in everything they do.
Scotland’s Progress on Children’s Rights
Every year, Scotland reports on how children’s rights are being protected and improved. You can find the latest updates in Children’s Rights Reports. These reports show how laws, policies, and services are working to support children and young people.
Watch: What is the UNCRC?
The Scottish Government have created a simple video explaining what children’s rights mean in Scotland. Please watch below!
Need More Information?
Visit the Scottish Government’s UNCRC website: Children's rights - Human rights - gov.scot. Every child and young person in Scotland have rights. Let’s work together to make them a reality!