Every child deserves the freedom to think freely and embrace their own beliefs. Save the Children Australia strives for a world where every kid has the space to think for themselves and to believe in what resonates with their internal ideas and values. Recognising the significance of this principle, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) Article 14 protects children’s right to explore and express their beliefs freely.
Why protecting religious freedom matters for children
At the heart of UNCRC Article 14 lies the recognition of every child's inherent right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. This pivotal article lays out the importance of respecting children's religious rights and their ability to explore and express their beliefs. The core elements of this right encompass not only the freedom to adopt a religion or belief of their choice but also the liberty to express and practise these beliefs openly, without fear or censorship from authority figures and/or family.
When kids can freely explore their beliefs, they're building their own identity and learning to respect others. The safeguarding of thought and religious freedom for children isn't just a matter of upholding human rights; it's a critical investment in our collective future. Religious freedom gives children the opportunity to build their sense of self and find community. These early experiences of autonomy and respect lay the groundwork for societal harmony, fostering cultural and social cohesion.
Limitations and responsibilities in UNCRC Article 14
As with all rights, certain boundaries are necessary. While UNCRC Article 14 staunchly defends the religious freedom of children, it also acknowledges that this freedom operates within the framework of public safety, order, health, morals, and the rights and freedoms of others. This ensures a balanced approach, safeguarding both individual and collective well-being and ensuring everyone’s rights are respected.
Save the Children's contribution to freedom of beliefs
Freedom of belief can take many forms. Obviously, at a government level, laws mustn’t prevent the reasonable study and practice of all religions, but beyond this, the lines can get murky. For example, families or education systems that force children to practise certain religions or even lack of access to alternative religious texts can be examples of restricting religious freedoms.
Save the Children Australia champions the spirit of UNCRC Article 14 through its transformative initiatives. In addition to working with governments to foster religious freedom, our programs are designed not only to support educational endeavours but also to create spaces where children can safely express their thoughts and beliefs and explore different schools of thought.
Nurturing young minds in Melbourne
In the heart of Melbourne, our Family Learning Club is an example of an initiative that indirectly supports religious freedom. Here, families, many from refugee backgrounds, find a nurturing environment where they can access and learn more about education in Australia. Beyond academic support, this program offers a space where diverse beliefs and cultures are celebrated, empowering children and parents alike.
Expanding horizons in Papua New Guinea
In the remote communities of Papua New Guinea, through the Rapidly Improving Standards in Elementary Education (RISE) program, we’re engaging parents and communities to create a culture of reading, and we’re working to ensure elementary schools meet the needs of girls and children with disabilities. By incorporating local languages and stories, we're honouring the diverse beliefs and traditions that shape these young lives.
Join us and make a difference
Help us at Save the Children Australia in creating a world where every child freely expresses their beliefs and dreams. As well as doing your part in your local community to foster free-thinking children, donating and volunteering go a long way to support our initiatives like RISE and the Family Learning Club, click to see how you can help kids today.