The Convention contains a long list of rights that apply to every child in the world.

The basic principles are:

• All children have the same rights and are of equal worth.
• Every child has the right to have his or her basic needs fulfilled.
• Every child has the right to protection from abuse and exploitation.
• Every child has the right to express his or her opinion and to be respected

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UNCRC for children

Article 1

These rights apply to all children under 18.  

Article 2

You and all other children have the same rights and equal value. No one is allowed to discriminate against you, i.e. treat you badly, based on your appearance, gender, ethnicity, language, religion or your opinions.

Article 3

When adults make decisions affecting children, they must think about what is in the best interests of the child. Politicians, authorities and the courts must consider how their decisions affect children, whether it is one child or many.

Article 6

You have the right to life, and to be able to develop.

Article 7

You have the right to be given a name and to be a citizen of a country.

Article 9

You have the right to be with your parents and grow up with them, unless it is in some way bad for you.

Articles 12–15

You have the right to say what you think. Your opinions should be respected in all matters concerning you – at home, at school and by the authorities and the courts.

Article 18

Your parents are responsible for your upbringing and development. They must think of your best interests.

Article 19

You have the right to protection from all forms of violence, neglect, abuse and other mistreatment.

Articles 20–21

If you cannot live with your family, you have the right to receive the help and care that is best for you.

Article 22

If you are a refugee, you have the right to protection and assistance. If you are in a new country, you have the same rights as all other children there. If you arrived alone, you should be given help to reunite with your family.

Article 23

If you have a disability, you have the same right to a decent life as all other children. You also have the right to extra support and help.

Article 24

You have the right to be as healthy as possible. When you are sick, you have the right to help and care.

Articles 28-29

You have the right to go to school and to learn about important things, including respect for human rights, your own and other cultures and the equal value of all people.

Article 30

Your thoughts and your faith must be respected. If you belong to a minority, you have the right to learn and use your own language and customs.

Article 31

You have the right to play, rest and free time.

Article 32

You have the right to protection from carrying out work that prevents your schooling and/or is dangerous.

Article 34

You have the right to protection from all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse.

Article 35

No one is allowed to kidnap and/or sell you.

Article 37 No one is allowed to torture you, or make you suffer other cruel or inhuman treatment.

Article 38

You have the right to protection from being forced to take part in armed conflict. If you are a victim of war, you have the right to support and care.

Article 42

You have the right to information and knowledge about your rights. Parents and other adults should know about the Convention on the Rights of the Child.