A lack of resources and specified format in the policy- and legislation-making procedures are a huge obstacle in facilitating meaningful and effective child participation. It is a fact that there is no specific procedure or format available within the UNCRC to consult the children globally and all at once regarding a draft or a policy that is being released that directly or indirectly affects them. Moreover, children from under-developed nations and even several developing nations find themselves deprived of the opportunity to have their voices heard because they are not in as privileged circumstances as other children who have access to platforms where their opinions can be heard and given recognition and consideration.
As a civil-society organization with a huge network of children who are changemakers globally, KidsRights has tried to bring the views of children and young people through this report to the UNCRC. We hope that this feedback report on the draft of General Comment No. 26, will provide valuable insights to the Committee and bring into focus the needs and requirements of children to better understand the impact of climate change on children’s rights.
The report, with several comments made by children and young people, has been divided into four domains based on how climate change plays a part in the realization and enjoyment of fundamental children’s rights as specified by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. These are: A. Participation and Information, B. Education, C. Life, Health, Protection and Prevention, and D. Legislation.
You can read the full report below!