International Guidelines

Guidance Note of the Secretary-General on Child Rights Mainstreaming

When adopted in 1989, the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) enshrined, for the first time in international law, the recognition of children as subjects of the full scope of civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights,1 a culmination in the evolution of the concept of childhood and a paradigm shift from the perception of children as the property of their parents. Since then, the Convention became the most ratified international human rights treaty in history and has prompted deep, transformative changes for children across the world, including with support from the United Nations (UN). More children than ever before now have access to health, education, protection, and participation opportunities.

Yet, child rights today are often misunderstood, disregarded, or disputed.

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2023

Guidelines for Action on Children in the Criminal Justice System

The Guidelines for Action are addressed to the Secretary-General and relevant United Nations agencies and programmes, States parties to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, as regards its implementation, as well as Member States as regards the use and application of the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Administration of Juvenile Justice

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Child rights Mechanisms_CRIN

Guide to mechanisms for children’s rights

The purpose of this guide is to help readers understand the ‘mechanisms’ working on child rights, such as different parts of the United Nations, or regional bodies like the African Union. The guide is not exhaustive, or perfect, and may be amended over time as new developments unravel. If you notice any inaccuracies, or have any other comments, we would like to hear from you.

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Guidelines on Justice in Matters involving Child Victims and Witnesses of Crime

Guidelines on Justice in Matters involving Child Victims and Witnesses of Crime provides a series of recommendations and guidelines on youth witnesses, offenders, and defendants.

ECOSOC Resolution 2005/20, Guidelines on Justice in Matters involving Child Victims and Witnesses of Crime, provides a series of recommendations and guidelines for member states to implement national policies regarding youth in the justice system.

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2005
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