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This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Geneva Declaration of the Rights of the Child, a groundbreaking moment that laid the foundation for the definition and adoption of child rights around the world. Save the Children’s founder, Eglantyne Jebb, was instrumental in drafting this historic declaration, which was adopted by the League of Nations in 1924 and later paved the way for the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). While we celebrate this centenary, we must also recognise the growing inequalities and risks that undermine children’s rights today.
The Geneva Declaration of the Rights of the Child and later the CRC, adopted in 1989, were revolutionary in recognising that children are entitled to specific rights — not just as a matter of charity but justice. The CRC remains the most widely ratified treaty in history, with 196 countries as signatories, including Thailand. For children and families worldwide, the CRC enshrines their rights to survival, development, protection, and participation, emphasising that the best interests of the child must be at the forefront of development and decision-making.
In Thailand, the CRC has influenced child welfare policies and legal reforms. However, challenges remain, particularly for vulnerable groups such as migrants and stateless children. Thailand became a party to the CRC in 1992 with reservations on certain articles, which have gradually been withdrawn. The Thai cabinet’s decision to withdraw its reservation on Article 22 of the CRC came into effect just last month, marking a major step forward in protecting refugee and asylum-seeking children in Thailand. This effort reaffirms Thailand’s commitment to promoting children’s rights, ensuring non-discrimination and prioritising the best interests of the child, in line with national laws and international obligations. Every parent in Thailand can rest assured knowing their children’s rights are legally protected here.
The CRC is a living document, and its relevance today is just as profound as it was a century ago. It evolves to address new challenges children face today, such as the dangers of online exploitation, climate change, and the refugee crisis. The recent focus on children’s right to a healthy environment reflects the growing awareness of how climate change disproportionately impacts children. Digital safety has also become critical, as children spend increasing time online, making their protection from exploitation and privacy breaches essential.
While much progress has been made in Thailand and globally, there are still persistent risks to children’s rights in every country. Economic inequality, social unrest, and environmental disasters continue to affect children disproportionately, particularly in rural or disadvantaged areas. This reality reinforces the need for constant monitoring, investment, and collaboration to ensure that no child is left behind.
As we commemorate 100 years of promoting and advocating for child rights, we must remember that protecting these rights is an ongoing effort. The world has changed, and so too have the challenges facing children. The success of CRC relies on the commitment of governments, civil society, and communities to uphold and adapt it to these evolving challenges. This milestone is not just a celebration but a reminder of our collective responsibility to all children.
We owe it to future generations to protect their rights, invest in their well-being, and create a world where every child can grow up safe, healthy, and empowered.
Guillaume Rachou is the Executive Director of Save the Children Thailand. The article marks the 100 years of Declaration of the Rights of the Child being signed on Sept 26, 1924.