Universal Periodic Review

Child rights must be explicitly considered in all development cooperation and SDG processes

Proponent:

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

In 2024, Austria is under increasing pressure to explicitly enshrine children’s rights in all relevant political processes, particularly in development cooperation and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Organisations such as UNICEF are calling for children’s rights to be considered as a central element in all political decisions. They emphasise that child poverty, education, inclusion of children with disabilities, protection from violence and mental health are key issues that must not be neglected in the context of the SDGs;
A particular focus is on combating child poverty. UNICEF is calling for the full implementation of the National Action Plan for the Child Guarantee, which includes basic child protection and improving educational opportunities. Climate policy is also a key aspect: children are one of the groups most affected by climate change and their rights must be given greater consideration in climate policy decisions. 
In the political debates surrounding the 2024 National Council elections, many stakeholders are calling for children’s rights to play an even greater role and finally be fully implemented. The future government is expected to take concrete measures to promote and protect children (UNICEF demands, 2024: https://unicef.at/news/einzelansicht/unicef-oesterreich-fordert-umfassende-verankerung-der-kinderrechte-im-vorfeld-der-nationalratswahlen-2024/).