Save the Children welcomes “Canadian Children’s Charter” in celebration of Universal Children’s Day

Save the Children is thrilled to welcome the Government of Canada’s newly announced Canadian Children’s Charter: a call to action to respect, protect and fulfill the rights of children.

“Children’s charters have been established in many countries around the world and I am very encouraged to see one created in Canada. These charters are made by children, for children. They give a voice to our youngest citizens, to build informed and engaged communities,” said Bill Chambers, President and CEO of Save the Children.

This charter has been a year in the making and its launch today coincides with Universal Children’s Day, a global day dedicated to, “promoting international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s welfare.”1

Save the Children applauds the participatory process undertaken to draft and finalize the Charter, allowing for meaningful participation of children from across the country, and providing a valuable opportunity for Canadian children to exercise their civic and political rights.

“Children should be the focus of all our policy decisions. It is ultimately their world and therefore, it’s imperative to have their voice at the table. The government’s move to establish this charter shows a strong dedication to ensuring every child in Canada realizes all their rights and lives a fulfilling life,” said Chambers.

In Canada, Save the Children works through its National Reconciliation Program, which is committed to facilitating the empowerment of Indigenous children as natural rights holders and social actors entitled to claim their rights, including their rights to culture, identity, language, health, and education. Our commitment to children’s rights extends and includes the recognition and adherence to Indigenous Rights as detailed in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

In seeking to empower children in Canada, the government must continue create opportunities for meaningful participation of children from across the country, including Indigenous boys and girls, so that no children are left behind.

Save the Children believes every child around the world has the right to survive, be protected from harm and have opportunities to learn and participate in decisions that impact their lives. A Children’s Charter allows children and their parents to be informed on their inherent rights. It provides a tool through which children can hold duty-bearers to account where their rights are not respected.

While the Canadian Children’s Charter is a unique way to celebrate Universal Children’s Day this year, Save the Children’s dedication to children’s wellbeing is an everyday endeavour – join us.

-END-

Notes to editor:

1. http://www.un.org/en/events/childrenday/