Children's Rights

Adopted on November 20, 1989, and signed by Turkey in 1990, the Convention on the Rights of the Child acknowledges and states that children's physical and psychological conditions and behavioral characteristics are different from those of adults, and that they should be approached within the framework of these differences. Violations of children's rights occur in many parts of the world, particularly in underdeveloped and developing countries. This convention aims to improve and regulate the situation of children who are used as cheap labor, exploited in illegal jobs, subjected to prostitution, denied education, and forced to beg. The convention defines individuals under the age of eighteen as children and recognizes that they possess inalienable rights until this age. This declaration is the first article of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child consists of a total of 54 articles. The convention states that children's rights apply to all children, regardless of where they are born or what language they speak. It is also acknowledged that those who enact laws and practices concerning children must primarily consider the best interests of the child. The state is obliged to ensure that children benefit from these rights, and it is stated that while the state makes efforts in this direction, it must also respect the rights of those who have taken responsibility for the child, primarily the parents. It is expressed that the right to life is a fundamental right of every child and that protecting children's lives is everyone's primary duty. According to the convention, every child has the right to a name and nationality, and the state is obliged to register the child's name and provide them with an identity when they are born. It is stated that special care and protection should be provided to the child and the mother during the prenatal and postnatal periods for the healthy growth of the child. The Declaration of the Rights of the Child stipulates that children should have access to nutrition, shelter, play, rest, and medical care.

The convention also introduces children's rights for children with physical, mental, or social disabilities; the treatment, education, and care needs of these children must be met. The name given to children, their citizenship rights, and family ties must be protected; all of these cannot be changed or taken away by force. If such a situation arises, the state must oppose the deprivation of these fundamental rights from children. Every child has the right to live with their family; if the parents are unable to care for the child, alternative care must be provided to prevent harm to the child. In such cases, every child has the right to regularly visit their parents. Additionally, states should facilitate the ability of children whose parents are in different countries to be with their families.

The fundamental purpose of the Convention on the Rights of the Child is to ensure that children grow and develop fully, receive help for any health issues, have proper nutrition, and engage in suitable activities during their leisure time; ultimately, to consider and safeguard all their vital needs. Ensuring that children under the age of fifteen are not conscripted, preventing children from being used as commercial commodities in any form, facilitating the reintegration of juvenile offenders into society, and preventing the exploitation of children for the interests of adults are also among the details expressed in the convention.