EDUCATION IN THE SPIRIT OF CHILDREN'S RIGHTS: FROM LEGAL PRINCIPLES TO EDUCATIONAL IMPLICATIONS

<doi>10.24250/jpe/si/2025/EB/</doi>

Abstract

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
(1989) constitutes a fundamental milestone in the
consolidation of the international legal framework for the
protection and promotion of children's rights, exerting a
direct influence on the educational and social policies of
the signatory states. The document enshrines four essential
guiding principles—non-discrimination, the best interests
of the child, the right to life and development, and respect
for the views of the child—which underpin child-centered
educational approaches. Despite legislative and
institutional advancements, significant challenges persist,
such as violence against children, inequality, and
exploitation in conflict settings. This paper aims to provide
a theoretical analysis that highlights the importance of a
rights-based education as a means of prevention and
empowerment, with a view to ensuring an environment
conducive to the comprehensive development of the child.