The convention states that every child has an inherent right to life, and that States have the obligation to ensure, to the maximum extent possible, the survival and development of the child.
Every child also has the right to the highest standard of health and medical care attainable.
The CRC recognises parents as primarily responsible for the care of their children . It also states that Governments have the responsibility to ensure the provision of good quality services and to support families to be the effective guardians of their children's health and well-being. They shall encourage international co-operation in this regard and strive to see that no child is deprived of access to effective health services. The promotion of the equal rights of women and girls includes their full participation in the political, social and economic development of their communities. In 1990, the World Summit adopted a declaration on the survival, protection and development of children and a plan of action for implementing the declaration.