You’re not just citizens of tomorrow, but citizens of now. We want to hear what matters most to you, what you need and what your aspirations are for our wonderful world.
Drag your choice to the blank circle below.
Drop Answer
You should
be treated
fairly
Option Two
Adults should
do what is best
for you
Option Three
You have the
right to an
education
Option Three
You can choose
what you think
and believe
great response
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) has 54 articles on children’s rights. Each of the UNCRC’s 54 articles contains a right that children have, or guidance to governments and grownups on how to protect those rights. It sets out an inspiring vision for childhood and children – a world where all children’s rights are fully respected and fulfilled. Sounds great, right? Well, in 1990, Australia formally agreed to comply with the CRC’s standards and uphold the rights of all children here.
Child rights are a big deal here at 54 reasons for well, obvious reasons. To us, it seems like a no-brainer that all kids should have rights. Are we right or what? But another reason why we're so head over heels for rights is because over a 100 years ago, our founder, a woman and teacher named Eglantyne Jebb, drafted the first version of a document that laid out all the rights that all kids in every corner of the world should be in entitled. No. Matter. What. Eglantyne was way ahead of her time — a true visionary.
Today, Eglantyne's original vision forms the basis of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). Sure, it's a long name that doesn't exactly roll off the tongue, but this document doesn't mess around. It lays out all the rights kids of all ages have and what governments and organisations need to do to ensure those rights are met. So far every country in the world (minus one) have ratified the CRC, which basically means Australia is required to uphold what's in it. Next time you're trying to make a point and feel like it's not being heard, don't forget to reference the CRC and politely remind the adults around you that you're not playing around.
"I'm really passionate about right 12, which is the right of children to have their opinions respected, especially on issues that affect children. It's really important that children's opinions are considered as valid as adults."
We asked our Young Advisor’s Group and other children in Australia about their rights and what the 54 articles means to them. Here’s what they had to say
54 reasons acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land on which we work, and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their lore, and to their Elders past, present and emerging.
54 reasons is a proudly inclusive organisation and an ally of the LGBTIQ+ community.
