Young people’s thoughts on UNCRC incorporation

Date: 14th August 2019
Category: General measures of implementation, Incorporation

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YouthLink Scotland has published a report following its recent consultation event at Edinburgh Zoo on incorporating the UNCRC into Scots law.

The event, on 18th July, brought together young people aged 12-18 to get their views on incorporation. 31 young people took part from 15 organisations, representing a range of voluntary organisations from all across Scotland.

Young people heard from Together’s Director, Juliet Harris, and Gita Sharkey from Scottish Government about children’s rights and the context around incorporation. The young people were then given time to share their views through a series of activities and young person-friendly questions, outlined in guidance provided in advance by Together.

Young people were asked to imagine what a perfect world would look like where their rights had to be taken into account. They explored what should happen if their rights are not respected, and were asked to consider the timing of incorporation of the UNCRC into Scots law.

Some of the key points to emerge from young people’s responses include:

  • Young people face discrimination due to their age as well as an intersection of identities
  • Young people want to be equal, included, listened to and valued and want to have equal rights to children and young people across the world
  • Young people favour direct incorporation and want Scotland to be a world leader in improving children and young people’s rights

Read the full report on the event here.