Children help shape new UN guidance on the right to freedom of association

Date: 10th August 2026
Category: Freedom of association and peaceful assembly

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This year, the United Nations Human Rights Committee is developing new guidance on a fundamental human right: the right to freedom of association. This is an important opportunity to strengthen the rights of child human rights defenders and ensure that children’s experiences and views are reflected in international human rights guidance.

In April 2026, Child Rights Connect and Amnesty International worked together to involve children directly in the consultation process. More than 25 child human rights defenders aged 12 to 17 from 15 countries took part, including children from Nigeria, Ireland, Canada, Colombia, India, Ukraine and Northern Ireland.

The children met to discuss a child-friendly version of the draft General Comment No. 38 and shared their experiences and recommendations directly with Ms Hélène Tigroudja, Vice-Chair and member of the UN Human Rights Committee. The UN Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association also joined the discussion.

Children highlighted that freedom of association is important for their development, helping them build confidence, leadership skills and create positive change. They also raised barriers such as age discrimination, adult-centred approaches and restrictions, particularly in schools. They called for greater support from adults, governments and schools to help children access information about their rights, participate meaningfully and lead their own initiatives.

The consultation will help inform the development of General Comment No. 38 and ensure that children's experiences are considered in the final guidance. A joint written submission has also been developed, translating the children's key messages into practical proposals for the draft guidance.

The children are expected to meet again in autumn 2026 to see how their recommendations have been reflected in the final General Comment.

·       Read more on Child's Rights Connect webpage.

·       Read the Draft General Comment 38.