General Comment No. 12 (2009) explains the right of children to be heard under Article 12 CRC. Children have the right to express their views freely in all matters affecting them, and those views must be given due weight according to their age and maturity. The Committee stresses that this should be a meaningful process, not simply an opportunity to consult children. The right to be heard is closely connected to other principles of the CRC, particularly the best interests of the child, non-discrimination and the child’s evolving capacities.
Entities responsible for implementation: UN Committee on the Rights of the Child
General Comment No. 12 (2009) explains the right of children to be heard under Article 12 CRC. Children have the right to express their views freely in all matters affecting them, and those views must be given due weight according to their age and maturity. The Committee stresses that this should be a meaningful process, not simply an opportunity to consult children. The right to be heard is closely connected to other principles of the CRC, particularly the best interests of the child, non-discrimination and the child’s evolving capacities.
Entities responsible for implementation: UN Committee on the Rights of the Child
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