What is the purpose of UNCRC Article 35?
Every child deserves a life free from exploitation, abuse, and trafficking. Unfortunately, in much of the world there still lurks a pervasive threat that seeks to rob children of their freedom and future: child trafficking. It's a grim reality that necessitates a coordinated and international solution, one that is embodied in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) Article 35. This provision mandates the prevention of the abduction, sale, and trafficking of children across the globe.
In working tirelessly to combat child trafficking and exploitation, Save the Children Australia not only responds to immediate crises but also addresses the root causes of these issues, working towards a safer world for all children.
UNCRC Article 35 seeks to protect children from being sold, abducted, or trafficked. This involves a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, identification, and response strategies. By setting a global standard, Article 35 challenges nations to enact and enforce laws that specifically target these heinous acts, ensuring that children are shielded from such forms of exploitation.
How does Article 35 protect against child trafficking?
In establishing a global commitment to combat child trafficking, UNCRC Article 35 operates through a multifaceted strategy that involves legal frameworks, cross-border cooperation, and a commitment to child welfare.
This article mandates that signatories to the UNCRC implement measures to prevent the sale and trafficking of children, prosecute perpetrators, and provide support and rehabilitation to victims. This comprehensive approach ensures that children are not only rescued from immediate danger but also protected from future risks.
Who enforces the provisions of Article 35?
Enforcing the provisions of Article 35 is a collective responsibility. While governments are primarily responsible for creating and enforcing laws, individuals can aid by reporting any suspected trafficking and abuse or by joining Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) like Save the Children Australia that play a critical role in monitoring, reporting, and advocating for effective implementation. Our efforts to safeguard children from trafficking and exploitation are bolstered by partnerships with local communities, law enforcement, and other stakeholders.
How does Article 35 address international trafficking?
International child trafficking is a complex challenge that requires cooperation beyond borders. Article 35 acknowledges this by urging countries to collaborate in the prevention, detection, and prosecution of trafficking cases. Save the Children's global network allows us to work across borders, offering support to children at risk of trafficking and advocating for policies that strengthen international protections.
Can NGOs aid in Article 35 implementation?
NGOs are pivotal in the fight against child trafficking, offering expertise, resources, and a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Save the Children's advocacy for and review of Australia’s Modern Slavery Act and our child protection programs show how NGOs can help in Article 35's implementation. By raising awareness, influencing policy, and providing direct support to affected children, NGOs can drive significant progress in this area.
How can donors support Article 35's goals?
Donor support is crucial for the continuation and expansion of efforts to combat child trafficking. Financial contributions enable organisations like Save the Children Australia to implement programs that protect children, influence policy, and support victims. By donating, individuals and corporations can make a tangible difference in the lives of children at risk of trafficking and exploitation.
Our commitment to child protection underpins every initiative we undertake. In Australia and abroad, we strive to keep children safe from all forms of harm, including trafficking and exploitation. Our work includes:
- Advocacy for Stronger Laws: We actively participate in policy discussions, advocating for stronger legal protections against child trafficking. Our recent push for strengthening the Australian Modern Slavery Act is just one example of this commitment.
- Direct Assistance to Affected Children: We provide support to children who have been victims of trafficking, offering them a chance at recovery and a return to normalcy.
- Awareness and Prevention Programs: Our efforts extend to educating communities about the dangers of exploitation such as trafficking and strengthening family connections to protect children from institutional trafficking.
- Emergency Response: During crises, children are often at increased risk of exploitation and trafficking, recognising this informs our response and aid involved in these situations.
Join in the fight against child trafficking
The battle against child trafficking is far from over, but with continued support and collective action, we can turn the tide. Save the Children Australia invites you to join us in this crucial fight.
Whether through donations, advocacy, or volunteering, your involvement can make a significant impact on the lives of children around the world. Together, we can ensure that the principles of UNCRC Article 35 are realities for every child.