Imagine a world where children are born, but their existence goes undocumented. No birth certificate, no legal name, and perhaps, no nationality. This lack of identity and self might sound like dystopian fiction, but it's a reality for many children globally. UNCRC Article 7 aims to rectify this glaring issue, ensuring every child's right to a name, nationality, and the invaluable gift of family bonds.
For over a century, Save the Children has been at the forefront of safeguarding children's rights. Our impact spans the globe, reaching over 120 countries and millions of lives. Initiatives like Our Voice and It Takes a Village are proof of our unwavering commitment to empowering children, regardless of their background or circumstances. Let’s dive into UNCRC Article 7 and its impact on safeguarding the rights of children.
What are the obligations under UNCRC Article 7
This article asserts that every child, right from birth, is entitled to a registered name, a nationality, and, as far as possible, the right to know and be cared for by their parents. By guaranteeing these basic elements of identity, UNCRC Article 7 not only acknowledges the importance of a child’s individuality and belonging within a community but also paves the way for them to access a spectrum of other fundamental rights and protections.
Governments that are party to the UNCRC have a significant role to play. Their obligations include issuing birth certificates, guaranteeing citizenship where possible, and ensuring the child's right to know their parents. In Australia, these principles are reflected in various child welfare policies and citizenship laws, ensuring that children born here or those who arrive on its shores are not rendered stateless.
Why namelessness and statelessness are aire issues
Being without a legal identity is akin to walking on a tightrope without a safety net. These children are often sidelined when it comes to accessing essential services such as healthcare and education. In some instances, these children can become invisible to the system, making them prime targets for exploitation, trafficking, and other forms of abuse.
How does the right to name and nationality influence access to education and healthcare? In Australia, the presence of a birth certificate is often the first checkbox ticked off for school enrolment and healthcare programs, including immunisations. Being nameless and stateless, in contrast, sets these children back, closing doors even before they have a chance to knock.
Save the Children’s alignment with UNCRC Article 7
Our work is in close alignment with UNCRC Article 7. As well as lobbying with the interest of children in mind, initiatives such as the Our Voice program, for instance, ensure that children have a say during emergency planning, a critical time when their rights and identity could be overlooked.
Asylum seekers can be particularly vulnerable to statelessness and lack of identity, It Takes a Village focuses on helping migrant and refugee children settle into their new lives in Australia, facilitating their legal recognition and inclusion.
How you can make a difference
The work is far from done. You can be a part of this transformative journey by supporting initiatives that underline the importance of a child’s right to name and nationality. Donations to Save the Children Australia go directly into funding our life-altering programs like Our Voice and It Takes a Village.