Rights of the child
A child is a rights holder, not an adult’s possession.
What does this right mean?
A child is a rights holder, not an adult’s possession. Children need special protection, identity and a voice appropriate to age and maturity.
Why does it matter?
Children need special protection, identity and a voice appropriate to age and maturity.
Everyday examples
A social welfare authority hears a child in a decision directly affecting them.
Legal basis
Universal Declaration of Human Rights — provisions 25(2). International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights — provisions 24. International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights — provisions 10. European Convention on Human Rights — provisions 8. Constitution of the Republic of Serbia — provisions 64–66.
Serbia framework
Constitution of the Republic of Serbia — provisions 64–66.
Parental rights carry protective duties. State intervention must be lawful, reasoned and directed towards the child’s best interests.
Checked 22 October 2026.
International framework
- Universal Declaration of Human Rights — provisions 25(2).
- International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights — provisions 24.
- International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights — provisions 10.
- European Convention on Human Rights — provisions 8.
The Declaration is a common international standard; the Covenants, Convention and Constitution have different protection mechanisms.
Checked 22 October 2026.