Children occupy a unique status in our society. As minors, they are vulnerable and in need of safeguards to ensure their protection. In 1979, in recognition of children%u2019s special position, the United Nations began efforts to develop an inclusive, legally-binding human rights treaty for all the world%u2019s children. Ten years later, in 1989, the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly and was later instituted as international law in 1990.
Built on varied legal systems and cultural traditions, the Convention on the Rights of the Child is a universally agreed set of non-negotiable standards and obligations. It outlines the basic human rights that should be accorded to all children- regardless of national boundaries.
Even though the U.S. signed the Convention in 1995, indicating its intent to consider ratification, the CRC has yet to be presented to the U.S. Senate. We, along with Somalia, remain the only two nations a party to the UN who have not ratified this celebrated agreement.
This is an indication to the WORLD that the United States is far behind even the most meager "3rd" World countries when it comes to CHILDREN'S RIGHTS.
The time is NOW for the US government to step up and show that they, that WE, as a country DO CARE about Children's Rights around the world and RATIFY THE CRC.
