Teen editorial from Jamaica: ‘Children have rights, too. Protect them!’

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica has been subject to human rights criticisms in regards to our level of intolerance for sexual diversity, poor rehabilitation facilities, an overburdened and inefficient judicial system, human security and the continued impunity of police officers and state representatives who commit crimes.

Two decades ago (1989), world leaders made a historic agreement through the Convention of the Rights of the Child (CRC), which acknowledges that governments, caregivers and stakeholders must respect, promote and fulfil the rights of all children within the society.

Internationally, this was the first instrument to incorporate civil, cultural, economic, political and social human rights. The convention outlined the rights of each and every child to survival; to develop to the fullest; to protection from harmful influences, abuse and exploitation; and to participate fully in family, cultural and social life.

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