Liberals to Repeal Section 43

The Globe and Mail reported today that the Liberals plan to honour all recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission including the recommendation to repeal s.43 of the Criminal Code.  This section provides a defence to parents and teachers who use force against children for the purpose of correction. It is referred to as the corporal …

Children’s Rights Could Improve Federalism

Dialogue between Canadian government officials and the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child revealed many gaps in support for some children in Canada to develop their full potential.   The lack of coherence in policies that affect children was highlighted when the committee, composed of experts in child development and children’s rights, reviewed reports …

Too Many Children Wait for Adoption

Is it acceptable that Canada has a lower rate of domestic adoptions than comparable countries? Finding permanent family-like care for children who cannot stay with their birth families should be a top priority.  All children deserve to grow up with the love and support of a permanent family, whether a birth or adoptive family. Canada …

Canada Ranks Low on Child Well-being Indicators

Did you know that Canada ranks low when indicators of children’s well-being are compared internationally? Canada has ranked near the bottom in international comparisons of the well-being of children in industrialized countries in recent years. Following are examples: Infant Mortality – 24th of 30 countries Health and Safety – 22nd of 30 countries Child Poverty …

Children Miss Out on Basic Needs in Canada

Is it acceptable that a higher percentage of Canadian children live in poverty than in other countries similar to Canada? On September 26 the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child will question Canada about its record on child poverty.  Canada has not made substantive progress in reducing child poverty since the last review. …

Too Many Children Lack Family Support: Third Review

Is it acceptable that over 67,000 children are in state care, without a permanent home, and that a high percentage leave state care at age 16 or 18 without support that other children get from their families? On September 26, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child will ask Canada what is being …

Polygamy ruling advances children’s rights

The BC Supreme Court upheld the prohibition against polygamy to prevent harm against women and children.  The ruling gives high priority to  children’s right to protection from harm.  It  reinforces the positive obligations of the state to prevent violations of children’s rights.  And it establishes a strong link between children’s rights under the Charter and the Convention on the …