A Worldwide Commitment to Protecting Children's Rights

November 20 marks the 25^th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child

TORONTO, Nov. 20, 2014 /CNW/ - November 20 is observed annually in Canada as National Child Day and worldwide as Universal Children's Day to recognize the United Nations' adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). This year marks the 25^th anniversary of the CRC, which vows to protect and promote children's rights.

Mary Ballantyne, Executive Director of the OACAS said: "Let today mark our ongoing commitment to creating a bright future for children by protecting the rights and best interests of every child."

On the 25^th anniversary of the CRC there is much to celebrate in the advancement of child welfare, but this milestone also serves as a reminder of the work yet to be done to ensure the rights of children are protected both internationally and within Canada.  

On National Child Day, Ontarians are asked to stand up and speak out on behalf of youth who need help but are not able to receive it under the current mandate. Currently in Ontario, the laws that protect children from abuse and neglect do not extend to youth once they turn 16, which runs counter to the declarations of the UN CRC. The mandate must shift to ensure all children and youth are protected up to the age of 18 as stated in the CRC.

Universal Children's Day is devoted to educating children and adults worldwide about children's rights and promoting the child welfare objectives of the UN Charter. Universal Children's Day serves as a reminder of the global commitments to protect and advance the rights of children year long, give children a voice and help each child reach their full potential. 

Visit oacas.org for more information and to learn how you can contribute to protecting and promoting children's rights.

For more resources on Universal Children's Day and the CRC, visit:
Celebrate National Child Day 2014 - UNICEF Canada
Children of the Recession: The impact of the economic crisis on child well-being in rich countries - UNICEF-IRC
The Best Interests of the Child in Intercountry Adoption – UNICEF-IRC
National Child Day - Calendar of Events, Ways to Celebrate and Resources- Public Health Agency of Canada
                                                                                                                                              
About the Ontario Association of Children's Aid Societies: Since 1912, OACAS has represented Ontario's Children's Aid Societies in Ontario and provided service in the areas of government relations, communications, information management, education and training to advocate for the protection and well-being of children.

SOURCE: Ontario Association of Children's Aid Societies

For further information: Tanzeem Parkar, Communications Advisor, [phone] or [e-mail]