A key underlying advance of the Convention on the Rights of the Child is the legal recognition of the child as a complete individual with an identity distinct from that of parents or legal guardians. Governments that ratify the Convention are responsible under international human rights law for respecting, protecting and fulfilling all of the rights set forth in the Convention. Governments must report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child within two years after ratification and every five years thereafter on their successes and failures in implementing each of the rights contained in the Convention. The Committee then monitors the degree to which governments are meeting their obligations with particular emphasis on the well-being of children and families. Children have a right to information and opportunities to develop life skills.
Children have a right to a safe and supportive environment free from exploitation and abuse.
Attention must be paid to ensure that orphans receive adequate support services. Children have a right to be heard and to have their aspirations and needs reflected in decisions affecting their future. This is critical to enhance HIV prevention and care strategies and to reduce the impact of AIDS on children, families and communities.