The ROC's Enforcement Act of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (hereinafter referred to as the Enforcement Act) took effect today, which is Universal Children's Day and the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, Premier Jiang Yi-huah stated at the weekly Cabinet meeting.
The Enforcement Act is highly significant, as it demonstrates the nation is joining track with the international community in protecting children's rights and interests, the premier said. The act passed its third reading by the Legislature on May 20, 2014 and was promulgated by President Ma Ying-jeou on June 4.
Jiang made these remarks after a briefing by the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) on promoting and advancing the rights and interests of children and youths.
In order to realize the spirit of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, in 1993, 2003 and 2011 the government examined relevant laws and regulations to make children's legal rights comprehensive. It has also implemented relevant measures to benefit children by making economic security, health care, early intervention, caretaking, welfare services, protection networks, and care and guidance available, the premier pointed out.
In accordance with Article 6 of the Enforcement Act, the Executive Yuan has set up an inter-ministerial task force to promote the rights and welfare of children and youths, Jiang stated. The MOHW has also formulated a program in line with the Enforcement Act, delineating various tasks on which related ministries and agencies are to provide assistance. The premier enjoined these competent authorities to proactively and thoroughly carry out the tasks as outlined in this program. These responsibilities include examining related laws and regulations, making national reports and conducting workshops and publicity campaigns.
The MOHW pointed out that the Convention on the Rights of the Child was passed by the United Nations on November 20, 1989 and became effective in September 1990. The 54-article Convention is an important basis for protecting children's rights and interests. A record 193 member nations have ratified or acceded to this Convention.