Children’s Week through legal lens
By Hamed Sedaqi
Lawyer & legal advisor
Our country celebrates its national Children’s Week from October 7 to October 13, with the official slogan for this year being “Better Childhood, Better Life.” Each day of this special week holds its own significance and aims to promote specific issues regarding children. Let’s explore each day from a legal standpoint.
October 7 is designated as ‘Child, Peace, Security, Environment.’ Peace and security are intertwined with the political and civil rights of children. On this day, we should all reflect on actions that bring peace and security for children in society. It is crucial to reduce violence, conflicts, and tensions for children to experience a peaceful environment.
The environment is also linked to the third generation of human rights. In order for today’s children to enjoy a thriving environment as they grow into adulthood, society must invest economically and raise awareness regarding environmental issues.
October 8 is allocated to ‘Child, Life, Health, Growth.’ This day addresses matters concerning a child’s right to health, including physical and mental well-being. Any society should prioritize investing in the physical and mental health of its children through measures such as vaccinations and comprehensive healthcare both within and outside of schools.
October 9 focuses on ‘Child, Participation, Awareness, Prosperity.’ These issues revolve around the political and civil rights of children. Participation and awareness are linked to a child’s right to education and free access to information across various subjects. It is essential to provide children with inclusive educational opportunities that encourage their active participation, enabling them to grow wiser and more knowledgeable.
October 10 is dedicated to ‘Child, Family, Identity, Non-discrimination.’ This day emphasizes the rights of children within their families, including their right to privacy. Children should not face discrimination, even during family hardships. For instance, a physically disabled child should not be treated differently within their own family.
October 11 highlights ‘Child, Morality, Upbringing, Expediency.’ Children should be provided with suitable environments for moral and spiritual education.
October 12 reflects on ‘Child, Past, Present, Future.’ On this day, we contemplate past challenges faced by children while prioritizing strategic planning for their present and future.
Lastly, October 13 is devoted to ‘Child, Welfare, Well-being, Equal Access.’ This day focuses on the economic rights of children. It is essential to consider the economic well-being and equal access to resources for all children, ensuring that no child is left behind.
Throughout Children’s Week, it is crucial to address these issues from a legal perspective and work towards creating a society that safeguards the rights of its children.