Family is integral to a child’s development, culture, and sense of self. Children who have emigrated or otherwise been separated from their families are often deprived of this support network, this is why The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) protects every child's right to connect with their parents, no matter the distances dividing them.
A century of advocacy and tangible impact on countless lives attests to Save the Children’s unwavering dedication. Our founder, Eglantyne Jebb, penned the Geneva Declaration of the Rights of the Child which has helped guide Save the Children Australia’s actions in helping children across the world since. Read on to learn more about UNCRC Article 10 and how our initiatives aim to uphold its mission.
What does UNCRC Article 10 mean for a child’s contact with parents
What exactly is UNCRC Article 10, and why does it matter so much? UNCRC Article 10 emphasises that children should not be deprived of their right to maintain personal relations and direct contact with both parents, regardless of where they are located.
These familial bonds form the bedrock of a child's identity, emotional stability, and cultural heritage, as well as providing a valuable support network. Upholding this right can be challenging, with legitimate legal and financial reasons sometimes separating children from their parents, signatories of the UNCRC can assist by providing infrastructure and legislation that supports a connection between parents and children, these measures vary depending on the country, but typically include:
- Legal Frameworks and Agreements: Agreements like the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction provide mechanisms to resolve cases of cross-border child custody disputes and ensure the child’s best interests are paramount.
- Consular Assistance and Support: Consulates can provide vital information and legal guidance to families dealing with cross-border child custody issues, and sometimes intervention in cases of international parental child abduction.
- Cross-Border Mediation Services: In some cases, international family mediation is used as a tool to resolve custody disputes, encouraging parents to find a mutually agreeable solution that prioritises the child's well-being.
- Child Contact Centres: Some countries have set up special centres where children can safely meet with a parent who lives in another country, under supervised or controlled conditions if necessary. With the rise of digital communication, virtual contact via video calls and messaging has become an important tool in maintaining relationships between children and parents living in different countries.
- Immigration Policies Favouring Family Unity: Some immigration policies are designed with provisions that favour the reunification of families, making it easier for children to join parents who have migrated to another country.
Supporting organisations that support families
Navigating the complexities of international law and immigration, Save the Children Australia strives to embody the essence of UNCRC Article 10. Our initiatives aim to close the gaps created by geographical distances, fostering environments where children can prosper, even amidst adversity.
'It Takes a Village' epitomises our commitment to nurturing cross-border familial connections. This program offers migrant and refugee children a supportive and research-backed environment to learn and play with their families and others in similar situations, easing their assimilation into Australian society while preserving their cultural identities and family ties.
Crisis and displacement can leave deep psychological imprints on children. Our 'Journey of Hope' program stands as a testament to our dedication to helping children navigate stress and build resilience. Tailored in-school interventions assist children in processing their experiences, fostering hope and empowerment.
Help bring children and families together with Save the Children
Individuals wield the power to catalyse change. By supporting Save the Children Australia, you support an organisation that advocates and lobbies for the rights of children and families and supports those who need it most here in Australia and abroad.
There’s more than one way for engagement, support, and impact. Your advocacy, volunteering, or donations can ignite hope and drive meaningful change, give today and make a real difference with Save the Children Australia.