Children have a unique perspective on the world around them and can often see issues that adults cannot. They deserve to have their opinions heard and considered, as long as they do not infringe on the rights of others. In fact, more children today than ever before are using their voice to demand racial equality and climate justice among other things.

Every child has the right to a life free from violence, neglect and exploitation. They also have the right to education that is adapted to their needs. Children are the most vulnerable members of society and therefore require special protection. Governments must act to ensure that all children can enjoy their civil, political, economic and social rights. This includes protecting their safety, providing adequate food and nutrition, ensuring access to healthcare, and allowing them to participate in cultural activities and creative work.

The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is an international treaty that sets out these basic principles. It consists of 54 articles and covers all aspects of children’s lives. Governments are responsible for protecting children, and the treaty explains how this should be done.

Despite this, millions of children are at risk. They are facing a deadly mix of crises, from conflict to disease outbreaks to poverty, malnutrition and extreme forms of violence, exploitation and neglect. Millions of children do not have access to education, or to a safe place to live or play. Millions have been displaced or separated from their families. Many have been exposed to armed conflict or sexual violence, and millions do not have the means to survive.

UNICEF is working in more than 190 countries to defend children’s rights. Together with governments and civil society, we are making real progress in implementing the Convention on the Rights of the Child. In places where it is being ignored, we are pushing for change. We are helping to educate children and adults about their rights. We are strengthening safeguards to protect children from abuse, exploitation and discrimination. And we are supporting programmes that provide education, care and support to children who have been harmed or deprived of their rights.

In places where we are succeeding, the impact is clear. We are seeing declining infant mortality rates, higher school enrolment and more children living away from extreme poverty. This progress can be undone by new threats to children’s lives. We must sustain our commitment to the UNCRC and continue to make children’s rights a reality for every child, everywhere.

The UNCRC makes clear that children have a right to live with their families, unless this is not in the best interests of the child. The treaty also recognises that children with disabilities, children from minority groups or who are displaced should receive help and support. Likewise, children should have the right to exercise their religion, language and culture in their communities, without discrimination. They should also have the right to freedom of movement and the right to access to education.