Key learning points

1. Rights are guaranteed by law and ensure that every individual is entitled to them.
2. Rights are universal, designed to provide everyone with a healthy, safe and happy life, regardless of background.
3. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) outlines 54 specific rights for children.
4. The UNCRC can be summarised into four principles including: non-discrimination and the best interests of the child.
5. This agreement, signed by 196 countries, emphasises the importance of supporting and protecting children’s rights.

Keywords

• Right - something we are entitled to by law

• Entitled - something that is guaranteed

• UNCRC - the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child; a legally binding international agreement that sets out the rights of all children, regardless of their race, religion or abilities

Common misconception