2024-Q4 Call to Ratify the Optional Protocol on a Communication Procedure for Children
Whereas #1 the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), ratified by Canada in 1991, recognizes that children have the right to express their views freely in all matters affecting them, and emphasizes the importance of listening to children’s voices; and
Whereas #2 the Optional Protocol on a Communication Procedure for Children which came into force in April 2014, establishes a mechanism for bringing complaints regarding the violation of the rights of children directly to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, empowering them to seek justice and accountability; and
Whereas #3 currently, many vulnerable children including but not limited to Indigenous children in Canada face barriers to accessing justice and may lack the means to address grievances regarding violations of their rights, thereby limiting their ability to influence decisions that impact them; and
Whereas #4 signing, to ratify the Optional Protocol which sets out extra provisions after the treaty was adopted, would align Canada with international best practices and demonstrate leadership in prioritizing children's voices, ensuring their perspectives are included in policy- making processes thereby empowering children and fostering a culture of respect for their
rights, encouraging their active participation in society, and promoting their overall well-being; therefore be it
Resolved #1 that the National Council of Women of Canada (NCWC) adopt as policy that the Optional Protocol on a Communication Procedure for Children be ratified without delay; and be it further
Resolved #2 that the National Council of Women of Canada (NCWC) urge the Government of Canada to:
a) ratify the Optional Protocol on a Communication Procedure for Children without delay
b) implement and promote awareness and understanding of the Optional Protocol among children, families, and communities to ensure that children know their rights and how to exercise them;
c) work collaboratively with provincial, territorial, and Indigenous governments to create an inclusive framework that supports children's participation in decision-making processes;
d) establish mechanisms that ensure children’s voices are consistently integrated into policies and programs affecting their lives.