L'Engagement des jeunes et des enfants - Les droits des enfants autochtones

Human rights are basic, agreed upon standards that are meant to support the quality of life and dignity of the person. The rights of the child are human rights that recognize childhood as an important period of development with special circumstances. Canada ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) on December 13, 1991 bringing it into effect as a legally binding document, meaning the government is committed to upholding the Rights. The Universal Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) is a non-binding legal document that outlines the individual and collective rights of Indigenous peoples. Canada was 1 of 4 states to initially oppose the adoption of UNDRIP by the UN General Assembly in 2007, only to later release a statement of endorsement in November 2012. The Caring Society works to support the widespread recognition and implementation of the rights of Indigenous children and youth, and their families.

As part of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, Canada must submit periodic National Reports to the Committee on the Rights of the Child. Canada’s most recent submission was a combined 3rd and 4th report in November 2009. NGO's, experts and Indigenous peoples organizations may also submit their views on how Canada is doing. For example, in February 2012 six Indigenous Youth Ambassadors from across Canada went to Geneva to speak to the CRC Committee. The Concluding Observations from UN CRC were published December 2012.

If you would like further information relevant to the rights of Indigenous children and youth in Canada, please see external resources.

Any other questions about UNCRC matters relevant to Aboriginal children and youth in Canada can be directed to info@fncaringsociety.com.