By Sr. Taskila Nicholas, Good Shepherd International Justice and Peace

The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child is a body of independent experts entrusted with monitoring the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) by each nation that has ratified, accepted, or acceded to the Convention. In accordance with Article 44 of the CRC, each State Party is obligated to submit a periodic reports every five years.

The upcoming 99th session of the CRC, is set to take place in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 5 to May 25, 2025. CRC will review Brazil, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iraq, Pakistan, Norway and Romania and address reports, including reports on the involvement of children in armed conflict (OPAC), the sale of children, child prostitution, and child pornography (OPSC).

The CRC sessions serve as critical platforms for stakeholders, including civil society organizations (CSOs), to engage meaningfully. CSOs contribute by submitting alternative (or shadow) reports, providing oral interventions, and conducting informal meetings with the Committee. These mechanisms enhance the accountability of governments and ensure that gaps in compliance with the Convention are thoroughly addressed.

At Good Shepherd International Justice and Peace (GSIJP), we believe that real change begins when children’s voices are amplified and acted upon. Operating as child rights advocates and a CSO, we are dedicated to playing an active role in the CRC reporting process before, during, and after each session.

Before the CRC Session

Our work starts well before the session begins. By contributing independent assessments, grassroots perspectives, and critical insights missing in official State reports, we highlight the realities facing children that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Civil society acts as an intermediary between children and the Committee. Facilitating the participation of children in the review process amplifies the voices of children, ensuring that their voices and perspectives are heard at the international level. This aligns with Article 12 of the Convention, which guarantees children the right to express their views on matters affecting them.

During the CRC Session

Our participation in the session itself as representatives of the Congregation allows us to directly engage in the dialogue and advocate for children’s rights on a global stage as well as providing us with the opportunity to network with committee members, UN agencies, State representatives, and other CSOs.

Key activities include attending the public sessions, participating in side events and informal meetings, and submitting an oral statement during the session, which brings credibility and visibility to the Good Shepherd mission.

After the CRC Session

The work doesn’t stop once the session concludes. The insights and recommendations derived from the Committee need to be shared and acted upon to create lasting change. Monitoring the implementation of the recommendations, and Report on Progress to the subsequent reporting cycles is essential.

Raising public awareness after the sessions at national and international levels about children’s rights issues and the work of the Committee is vital. This can generate greater support for the implementation of the Convention.

The underlying significance

Participation in the CRC reporting process from the grassroots offers GSIJP a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to advancing children’s rights. By engaging in this process, Our Good Shepherd presence at the grassroots along with GSIJP can influence policy for systemic change, hold governments accountable, and ultimately work towards a world where every child enjoys their rights to the fullest.

The CRC session in Geneva presents us with a vital opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to championing the rights of children. Through our involvement, we aim to amplify unheard voices, highlight urgent issues, and push for meaningful reforms that ensure every child, regardless of circumstance, enjoys their rights to the fullest.

At GSIJP, we remain steadfast in our mission to build a world where children are not only seen but heard, understood, and empowered. The work is challenging, but the rewards for the children whose lives are transformed through justice and advocacy are immeasurable.

Together, we can and will make a difference!