CRC/C/15/Add.231
page 6
26.
The Committee requests that specific information be included, in the next periodic
report, on the measures and programmes relevant to the Convention undertaken by the
State party to follow-up on the Declaration and Programme of Action adopted at
the 2001 World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and
Related Intolerance, taking into account general comment No. 1 on article 29 (1) of the
Convention (aims of education).
Respect for the views of the child
27.
While noting the State party’s efforts to improve respect for the views of the child, the
Committee remains concerned that traditional attitudes towards children in society limit respect
for their views within the family, schools, other institutions and society at large.
28.
The Committee recommends that the State party, in accordance with article 12 of
the Convention:
(a)
Promote respect for the views of children and facilitate their participation in
all matters affecting them, in the family, courts, administrative bodies, institutions and
schools, as well as in policy development, and ensure that children are aware of this right;
(b)
Provide educational information to, inter alia, parents, educators,
government administrative officials, the judiciary and society at large on children’s right to
have their views taken into account and to participate in matters affecting them;
(c)
Undertake a regular review of the extent to which children’s views are taken
into consideration and of the impact this has on policies, programmes and children
themselves;
(d)
Ensure that children participate systematically in meetings of boards,
committees and other groups determining policies in schools and other institutions
providing education, leisure and other activities for children.
4. Civil rights and freedoms
Freedom of expression and association
29.
The Committee is concerned about restrictions on political activities undertaken by
schoolchildren both on and off school campuses. It is also concerned that children below the
age of 18 require parental consent to join an association.
30.
The Committee recommends that the State party review legislation and regulations
governing activities undertaken by schoolchildren on and off campus and the requirement
for parental consent to join an organization, in order to ensure the full implementation of
articles 13, 14 and 15 of the Convention.