Faith and Children’s Rights: A Multi-religious Study on the Convention on the Rights of the Child

Arigatou International developed Faith and Children’s Rights: A Multi-religious Study on the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) to mark the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the CRC in 2019. The Study is the work of numerous partners, including religious leaders, scholars, human rights experts, and is enriched by the voices of children. Key partners include UNICEF, the former Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General on Violence against Children, the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC), the International Dialogue Center (KAICIID) and World Vision International.

The Study examines the Convention on the Rights of the Child, for the very first time, from the perspective of seven major religions. It highlights the significant role played by religious communities in advancing the rights and well-being of children over the past 30 years. Most importantly, the Study seeks to identify the common values shared among different religions and the principles of the CRC. It seeks to promote continued action by faith communities to implement this international treaty. Another important goal of the Study is to encourage further action by faith communities in the protection of children from violence.