Children's rights must remain a political benchmark

Terre des Hommes warns against exclusionary rhetoric

Far-right and right-wing populist forces question universal human and children's rights, exclude people, and pave the way for hatred and incitement. In light of the recent state elections, the children's rights organization Terre des Hommes calls on democratic parties not to adopt the exclusionary rhetoric and demands of the extreme right. The rights of all children must remain the binding standard for political action.

“Children’s rights are indivisible. They apply to every child – in Germany and worldwide. The future of children needs peace, social justice, democracy, a healthy environment and international solidarity,” states a recent resolution of the general assembly of Terre des Hommes .

Refugee children are particularly vulnerable. Restrictions on family reunification and the possibility of detention or detention-like conditions contradict their right to special protection. Children need their families, safe housing, education, social participation, and fair legal proceedings.

At the same time, Terre des Hommes warns against a policy that prioritizes military buildup while cutting social services and funding for democratic education and extremism prevention. Child poverty and social exclusion curtail future opportunities and weaken social cohesion. "Children's rights are not a discretionary benefit for times of ample funds," Terre des Hommes continues.

Whether in war, as refugees, in poverty, or in the face of the climate crisis: children bear the consequences of political decisions without being sufficiently involved in making them. Terre des Hommes therefore calls for a comprehensive concept of security. This includes peace, social security, democratic participation, and the protection of the natural environment. Children and young people must be effectively involved in decisions about their future. Political proposals must be subject to mandatory scrutiny to ensure they protect their rights.

Children's rights and democracy cannot be defended solely in parliaments. They require an active civil society that stands up for humanity and solidarity and opposes hatred and exclusion. The Terre des Hommeswebsite, "Demonstrations against right-wing extremism in German cities.

The full resolution “A future for children in a just and peaceful world: Strengthening children’s rights – defending democracy!” can be accessed via the following link:

Regarding the resolution