Teaching Resources
RIGHTS OF THE CHILD
There are various legislations which are in place in England and Tanzania with the intention of underpinning the rights of children. It is significantly vital that these laws support and uphold the identity of children and their entitlements to a healthy life; their development, health care and education etc. In addition, the ‘rights of the child’ are predominantly important to ensure protection and safety. It is imperative that the holistic needs of the child are considered in all areas and an inclusive approach is taken with the enabling of safety, learning and equal opportunities in order to reach their full potential.
Moreover, regulations influence the practice within many establishments and institutions. They shape, encourage and inspire individuals working alongside children to provide the best potential care in order to safeguard themselves and every child under their supervision. By saying this, the quality planning and provision of learning prospects should always meet legal and regulatory requirements; also valuing inclusivity and diversity as positive contribution.
Rights of the Child in England
Rights of the Child in Tanzania
Comparison between the rights of the child in England and Tanzania
England and Tanzania have laws and regulations in place to protect the rights of the child. Both countries are part of the UNCRC which safeguards the entitlements of children, ensuring that individual needs are met. They are also a part of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. It states that everyone has the right to life, liberty and security. ‘All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the law’. (UN, 2014).
In addition to this, both countries are also part of the commonwealth which ‘is a voluntary association which supports member states, civil society, promoting education, distance learning and sports development, through key organisations.
Moreover, England is part of the European Union and has international and national laws to defend the rights of children. On the other hand, though Tanzania is also part of the UDHR and part of the African charter, it relies greatly on global laws to cover the rights of the child. Furthermore, England has its own state regulations which are continuously revised to ensure they are current and effective. By saying this, Tanzania is behind with its acts and laws and even though they are reviewing educational policies and laws, it is apparent that they are not taking the overall child’s holistic development into account.
By Shahima Aktar
References:
Baginsky, M. (2008). Safeguarding Children and Schools: Best Practice in Working with Children. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Beaver.M, Brewster.J, Jones.P, Keene.A, Neaum.S, Tallack.J. (2001). Babies and Young Children. United Kingdom. Nelson Thornes.
Krieger, N. (2011). Epidemiology and the People’s Health: Theory and Context. New York: Oxford University Press.
Lindon, J. (2012). Equality and Inclusion in Early Childhood. 2nd ed. United Kingdom: Hodder Education.
Underdown, A. (2007). Young Children’s Health and Well-being. England: Open Press University. United Nations. (2014). The Universal Declaration of Human Rights. [online] Available at: http://www.un.org/en/documents/udhr/ [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].