The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is an almost universally adopted human rights treaty focusing on the rights and welfare of children. Within this treaty, Article 18 describes the shared responsibility of parents in raising children, especially that both mothers and fathers have common duties towards raising their children and that all children are deserving of supportive parents in their upbringing where possible.
Understanding parental responsibilities and rights
What does this mean for parents and children? Article 18 of the UNCRC lays out two key principles regarding parental responsibilities:
- Both parents have common responsibilities for the upbringing and development of the child.
- The best interests of the child will be their basic concern.
This means that it’s the job of the parents to be involved in a meaningful way in the lives of their children and to act with their child’s best interests in mind equally. But the obligation doesn’t end at guardians, governments have a part to play in upholding this right too. The government has the responsibility to support and assist parents where they can, especially through other people involved in the upbringing of the child such as school staff, healthcare professionals, and guidance counsellors to name a few. By making these services available widely part of the burden of parenthood is lifted and more adults are available to ensure and help in proper care for children.
Why parental responsibility matters
Recognising and supporting the role of parents is essential to the healthy development of children. When parents are well-equipped, informed, and supported, they are more likely to provide a nurturing environment where children can learn and express themselves freely, essential for the healthy mental, physical, and emotional development of children.
Sadly, there are times when one or both parents aren’t able to live with the child. In these instances, if able these parents have an obligation to support their child in whatever way aligns with the child’s best interests, though if it isn’t tenable for either parent to care for the child that child is still deserving of a productive upbringing.
Save the Children Australia's initiatives aligning with UNCRC Article 18
As well as our extensive work overseas in educating and supporting families, Save the Children Australia provides tailored support to families in Australia dealing with complex challenges.
Through Family Support and Connect, we work alongside families in NSW, enhancing their parenting skills and capacity by connecting them with relevant support for challenges including:
Parenting challenges
- Financial stress
- Substance abuse
- Family breakdown
- Housing issues
- Mental health
- Domestic and family violence
This service is paid for by the NSW government and is free of charge to families, helping them to work through their challenges together.
Help families everywhere with Save the Children
UNCRC Article 18 shows us the importance of family in the raising of children and how governments can support families to do so. If you’re wondering what you can do to help, donating to Save the Children Australia can make a real difference across the country and abroad in the lives of children.