Every child is born with the same inalienable rights that translate into a life of dignity and fulfillment. Yet millions of children around the world live in poverty, are denied basic opportunities for growth and development, and are exposed to violence and discrimination based on their place of birth or family origin, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, disability or social status. Children are the most vulnerable in society, but they can also be the agents of change. When children are empowered and educated, they can transform economies, reshape societies and help build a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Children’s rights are defined by the International Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), a treaty that defines the full range of children’s needs and protects them against abuse and exploitation. It covers rights to parental guidance, survival, health and development, education, play, leisure and the right to be heard in any judicial or administrative proceedings that affect them. It also prohibits children from being separated from their parents unless it is for their own safety or well-being and ensures that children can visit both parents if they wish to do so. Governments must do everything they can to meet the needs of their children, including taking into account the evolving capacities of each child and acknowledging that parents are the primary educators of their children.

There are many reasons to have children, including the joy they bring to a family, the sense of responsibility and pride they give their parents and grandparents, and the natural love that develops between them. However, having children can also be expensive. For instance, it costs an average of $230,000 to raise a child from birth to adulthood in the United States. Moreover, women who have children lose an estimated 95 weeks of their life to pregnancy-related illnesses and conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Additionally, it is widely believed that having children causes a decline in the ability to focus on one’s career and other interests, which could impact productivity.

The right to a standard of living sufficient for the health and well-being of children, including food, water and shelter. The right to health care, including vaccinations, treatment for disease and injury and dental care. The right to an education, including quality and access, as well as a safe school environment. The right to play and leisure, including freedom of expression. The right to privacy, including the right not to be subjected to unreasonable searches and the right to a private and family life. The right to a nationality and the right to a name, and the right to be looked after by parents, if that is not possible for good reason. The right to a healthy diet and adequate nutrition, including a balanced and nutritious diet, and the right to health care services to achieve this. The right to be protected against all forms of abuse and exploitation, including trafficking and the use of child soldiers.