Activity Libraries Choose Your Right
What is the Convention on the Rights of the Child?
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) was adopted on November 20, 1989.
Before its creation, children around the world were often viewed as the responsibility of their parents rather than as individuals with independent rights.
The Convention recognizes that children are not only in need of protection — they are human beings with voices, feelings, and the ability to influence their own lives.
It guarantees every child a set of fundamental rights in areas such as education, health, safety, participation, expression, and access to information.
Countries that ratify the Convention commit to ensuring that all children can fully realize their rights, without discrimination of any kind.
Israel and the Convention
Israel signed the UNCRC in 1990 and ratified it officially in 1991.
Since then, several national laws have been influenced by the Convention, including:
- Compulsory Education Law
- Youth (Care and Supervision) Law
- Prevention of Domestic Violence Law
- Pupil’s Rights Law
In 2003, Israel established the Rotlevy Committee, a public committee tasked with examining the implementation of the Convention in Israel.
The committee recommended:
- Strengthening children’s participation in decisions affecting them
- Improving protection from violence
- Integrating children’s rights into the national curriculum
Despite its comprehensive work, many recommendations were not fully implemented, and civil society organizations — including the Education for Life Foundation — continue to advance these principles on the ground.
Selected Articles from the UNCRC
Below are seven articles chosen in collaboration with youth participants — selected as the most meaningful and relevant to their lives.
Articles 6, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17
Article | Topic | Practical Meaning |
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6 | Right to Life and Development | Every child has the right to grow safely, in good health, and with opportunities to reach their full potential. |
12 | Right to Participation and Opinion | Children have the right to express their views on matters affecting them, and adults must listen seriously and respectfully. |
13 | Freedom of Expression | Children may express ideas, emotions, and opinions through speech, writing, art, or digital media, as long as it does not harm others. |
14 | Freedom of Thought, Conscience, and Religion | Children may develop their own beliefs and worldview according to age and maturity, while respecting parental guidance. |
15 | Freedom of Association and Assembly | Children and youth may form groups, organizations, and youth councils. |
16 | Right to Privacy | Children are entitled to personal privacy at home, in school, and online. No personal information may be shared or accessed without valid reason. |
17 | Access to Information | Children must have access to reliable, safe information — especially regarding health, rights, and social life. |
Why Is This Important Today?
In the digital age with social media pressure, inequality, and global uncertainty children’s rights cannot be taken for granted.
The Convention reminds us of our shared responsibility as parents, educators, policymakers, and community members to:
- Listen to children’s voices
- Ensure their safety
- Support their development
- Protect their dignity and privacy
- Empower them to participate and influence their world
A society that protects children’s rights is a society that invests in a healthier, more compassionate future.
Education for Life Foundation
The Education for Life Foundation promotes the values of the Convention across Israel — in schools, youth movements, and communities.
We develop educational programs, workshops, and youth-led initiatives that strengthen:
- Intergenerational partnership
- Emotional and social well-being
- Children’s participation and leadership
- Rights-based community engagement
We believe that children’s rights are the moral foundation of a just, inclusive, and thriving society.
Contact Information
Education for Life Foundation
32 Shaham St., Petah Tikva, Israel
📧 Email: office@efl.co.il
🌐 Website: www.efl.co.il
