Children's Rights
Theme: My rights and responsibilities.
To understand, appreciate and adhere to human rights principles in our daily lives.
Key terms
A child, one below the age of eighteen (18).
Human rights, rights possessed by all people by virtue of being human to enjoy a life of freedom and dignity.
Rights holder, individuals who possess a certain right (children's rights are held by children).
Claim holder, an individual who has the legal right to demand something; can demand protection, respect and promotion of their rights from duty bearers when those rights are violated.
Duty bearers, individuals tasked by law with the responsibility to ensure the rights holder enjoys their rights, Police, teachers, guardians, parents, government officials.
The Children Act Cap 59, the law in Uganda that states the rights of all children and what will happen when these rights are violated.
"People and Things" activity
Divide the group into two teams of 5.
Ask one group to act as people, the other as things. Things do not have feelings and are used in whatever way people want.
Let the 'people' group order the 'things' group to do whatever they want (nothing harmful, violent or degrading).
After a few minutes, let the groups exchange roles.
Ask the girls to share their feelings of what it felt to be in the different groups.
Share how important it is to always treat everyone equally, that is the importance of respecting each other's rights.
Main features of human rights
Fundamental, needed by all individuals to survive, develop and contribute to society.
Inherent, every individual has human rights by virtue of being human.
Inalienable (undeniable), cannot be taken away by the state under any condition.
Universal, every human being is entitled to rights regardless of sex, gender, race, tribe, religion, disability or status.
Indivisible, closely connected to each other.
Children's entitlements (Constitution & Children Act)
A right to a family. Every child has the right to know and be cared for by their parents or those entitled by law to bring them up.
A right to a name/identity.
A right to an education (the responsibility of the state and parents).
A right to medical treatment.
A right to equal treatment.
A right to protection from abuse, exploitation and violence, including child marriage and child employment/labour.
Rights come with responsibilities
Responsibility is when you have the duty to do something. As children we have to be responsible so we enjoy our rights.
Right to basic education → go to school, attend classes, read your books, do homework and hand it in on time, consult teachers.
Right to an identity → protect your name by being disciplined; respond to your name.
Right to shelter → keep the home clean; protect it from strangers.
Right to good medical care → speak out when unwell; take medication as required; maintain good hygiene.
Right to freedom of worship → worship but do not inconvenience others; always pray.
Right to freedom of speech → do not hurt others with your words; respect others with your words.
Right to a family → protect your family name; love your family.
- Children are entitled to children's rights as human beings.
- Children's rights do not differ because of race, tribe, ethnicity, religion or language.
- Rights come hand in hand with responsibilities we ought to maintain.