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Privacy
13
– 17
years
old
What does this mean?
Article 16 of the UNCRC says that all children have the right to privacy.
This means that adults need to keep information about you safe and confidential. For example, your school and medical records should only be available to people who need to access them.
However, adults also have to protect your best interests. There are some situations where an adult can interfere with your privacy. For example, a teacher can search your bag or locker if they believe it contains something that is dangerous or illegal. In this case, your parent must agree to this, and you must be given a good reason for it.
Remember!
In most cases professionals like doctors, nurses, social workers and teachers should respect your confidentiality so that you feel safe when speaking to them about personal issues.
However, sometimes they need to break confidentiality. They have a legal obligation to report information you give them if they believe that you are being harmed or at risk of harm.
How is this right protected in Ireland?
Does every child in Ireland get this right?
While Ireland is generally considered a safe country for children to grow up in, unfortunately some children are not safe in their home or face discrimination in society.
Did you know?
There are lots of steps you yourself can take to make sure your privacy is protected online.
Find out what you can do when you’re not getting your rights.
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A name
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Privacy
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7-12 years old
13-17 years old