Global gaps persist in protecting children's rights despite CRC treaty

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) stands as the most widely ratified human rights treaty in history. Yet, despite its global commitment, children’s rights continue to face systematic violations worldwide. A 2021 survey by the Human Rights Measurement Initiative (HRMI) found children at risk of rights violations in 38 out of 40 countries. The CRC’s Articles 24 and 28 guarantee access to nutritious food and education, but gaps persist. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 33% of respondents reported children lacking adequate food, with widespread nutritional deficits. In Vietnam, 12% flagged education as at risk.

Official data often overlooks vulnerable groups like street children and homeless youth, who face higher risks. Experts also call for better time and country coverage, along with more detailed data broken down by identity, to address these gaps. Malnutrition and schooling barriers remain pressing issues across many nations.

Of the 13 rights tracked by HRMI’s People at Risk data, only one—the freedom from death penalty executions—was not identified as at risk for children in at least some countries. The findings highlight ongoing challenges in protecting children’s rights. Improved data collection and targeted action are needed to address violations. Without these, gaps in nutrition, education, and safety will likely persist.