Celebrating 20 years of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child came into force 20 November 20 years ago. The Convention has contributed to a greater focus on the well-being and dignity of children, or the lack of such. The upcoming conference Children's Rights at a Cross-Roads gives an opportunity to look at the role of research in the implementation processes around the globe.

20 years ago today the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child came into force. Since then it has become the most ratified Convention of all United Nations' legal instruments, with all UN members except two agreeing to implement rights for all children. Understanding how best to secure children these rights require commitment, but also clear understanding of processes involved. The role of research in aquiring such understanding is undeniably important.

The 20th Anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child marks a crossroads for policy, research and practice. There is a need for critical reflection and dialogue across sectors about the role of research in the realization of child rights. By reflecting on current practices and learning from experience, we can better ensure that policies are based on solid evidence - for, about and by children.

The conference is organized by Childwatch International, the African Child Policy Forum and UNICEF Innocenti Research Centre. It takes place in Addis Ababa, 30 November - 2 December 2009.

To read more about the event, see the conference web site.

Tags: ["UN Convention on the Rights of the Child", "20th Anniversary", "Children's Rights at a Cross-Roads"]