Of the 43 countries whose reports have so far been reviewed by the international Committee on the Rights of the Child, many have shown an obvious commitment to the Convention. Namibia and Viet Nam, for example, were commended for producing timely, clear, and self-critical reports. After reviewing each country's report, the Committee issues concluding observations and makes recommendations. Issues raised can range from a low legal age of marriage for girls to broader questions of disparity and discrimination. Governments are required to publicize their reports and the Committee's observations.
Countries have a range of options for monitoring compliance.
Since the Convention came into force, Austria, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Spain have all designated ombudsmen for children at provincial as well as at national levels. Norway appointed the world's first ombudsman for children over a decade ago. The Government of El Salvador recently established 12 municipal councils on child rights. In Nepal, the 1992 Children's Act provides one child welfare officer for each of the country's 75 districts. In Viet Nam, the Government has set up provincial, district and commune Committees for the Protection and Care of Children.