Children's Rights and the Law: An Introduction

English law gives adequate recognition to and protection of the rights of children, with a focus on parental rights. This book explores topics such as the welfare of the child, education, medical treatment, freedom from abuse, and the role of the State in care and protection. It also provides an introduction to domestic and international law, including the Children Act 1989, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the European Convention on Human Rights.

Format: Hardback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realm of defining a child within the legal framework, exploring the vast spectrum of rights that rightfully belong to children. It sheds light on the extent to which English law adequately recognizes and safeguards these essential rights. Historically, the focus of rights protection has predominantly revolved around parental rights, leaving the rights of children relatively less acknowledged and assured. However, recent times have witnessed a significant shift, with the rights of children gaining heightened recognition and assurance. Through a thematic approach, this book examines a range of critical topics related to children's rights, including:

Underlying Concepts: The welfare of the child and safeguarding, which form the cornerstone of ensuring children's well-being and protection from harm.

Right to Education: Recognizing the fundamental right of every child to access quality education, enabling them to develop their skills and knowledge.

Right to Medical Treatment: Ensuring that children have access to necessary medical care and treatment, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Right to Freedom from Abuse and/or Sexual and Commercial Exploitation: Striving to eradicate all forms of abuse, exploitation, and violence against children, protecting them from harm and ensuring their safety.

Contemporary Challenges: Addressing the pressing challenges posed by forced marriage, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), modern slavery, and trafficking, recognizing the urgent need to combat these atrocities and protect children from harm.

The Role of the State in Relation to Children in Need of Care and Protection: Exploring the responsibilities of the state in providing care and protection to children who are vulnerable or at risk of harm.

Children's Rights in the Criminal Justice System: Ensuring that children are treated fairly and with respect within the criminal justice system, protecting their rights and interests.

Right to Contract and Employment: Recognizing the rights of children to engage in legal contracts and pursue employment opportunities, fostering their independence and self-sufficiency.

In addition to providing a comprehensive examination of these critical topics, the book also offers an introduction to key aspects of domestic and international law, including the Children Act 1989, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), and the Human Rights Act 1998. This invaluable resource will be of immense interest to law and social science students pursuing courses in Child Development and Protection, Human Rights Law, Family Law, Child Law, and Child Studies. It will also serve as a valuable reference for social workers, police officers, magistrates, probation officers, and other professionals engaged in the field of child welfare and protection. By shedding light on the rights of children and the legal framework that safeguards them, this book contributes to a more informed and compassionate society, where every child can thrive and reach their full potential.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138321243