Children's rights

Children's rights concern all children.

They are based on the following principles:

  • Children may not be discriminated against.
  • Adults should do what is best for a child.
  • A child has the right to life and development.
  • Children’s opinions must be listened to.

Protected by the Convention and laws

Children's rights are protected by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and Finnish laws.

For example, the Constitution of Finland says:

"Children shall be treated equally and as individuals and they shall be allowed to influence matters pertaining to themselves to a degree corresponding to their level of development.”

You are a child until you turn 18.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child explains a child’s human rights

The most important document in the world for children's rights is the United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of the Child. 

This convention is a human rights agreement that applies to all children under the age of 18. It lists the human rights that belong to children and says that the first responsibility for protecting them belongs to the state.

Almost all countries in the world have joined this convention. The convention entered into force in Finland in 1991.

Read more:

Children's rights in short

No-one may be discriminated against.

The child’s best interest should be considered when making all decisions.

The state must support guardians in bringing up children.

Right to the highest possible level of health and to receive treatment when needed.

Right to an identity in official registers.

Right to a family and close relationships, provided they are safe for the child.

Right to say your opinion, as long as it does not violate other people's rights. 

Right to freedom of conscience, thought and religion, 

Right to play and free time and right to privacy.

Right to receive information in a way that is appropriate for the child’s age.

Right to social security and a sufficient standard of living.

Right to education and good quality teaching.

Right to your own language and culture and right to join an association. 

Right to protection from all activities harmful to the child and the right to receive support when abuse has happened.

Right to help that supports your recovery if you have been abused. 

Unicef