What is the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child?

On November 20, 1989, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the most comprehensive treaty for the protection and support of children and young people in existence today. It reaffirms the fact that children and young people, because of their vulnerability, need special care and protection, defined in terms of rights. The Convention represents a historic milestone. It not only symbolises the many years of struggle to improve children and young people's status in society but also attempts to consolidate international law on the basic rights of children and young people. The Convention has been ratified by more countries than any other human rights treaty in history. New Zealand is one of over 170 nations that have signed the Convention, illustrating our government's commitment to recognise the fundamental human dignity of our children and young people and to ensure their well-being and healthy development. By signing this document, countries are obliged to review their domestic laws and practices regarding children and young people, and to make any changes needed to reach the minimum standards set by the Convention.