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All different, All equal

7-12

years

old

What does this mean?

It’s your right to be treated fairly, no matter who you are, where you live, where you’re from, what your parents do, what language you speak, what religion you are, what gender you are, what sexuality you are, what your culture is, whether you have a disability, whether you are rich or poor.

This is what the UNCRC says.

If you are treated differently to other people because of who you are, that’s called discrimination. Discrimination is against the law in Ireland.

Discrimination isn’t just bullying. It also might happen if you can’t get support because of who you are, or if the support isn’t helpful for you, like the doctor, a school or sports team.

Children should not be treated differently.

All children have the same rights, no matter who they are.

We should support children so that they can all do the same things, in whatever way they are able. For example, if you speak another language, you should be helped with English in school so you can take part in class. If you have a disability and need special help in school, like a ramp or a Special Needs Assistant, the Government should make sure you can get it.

Ahmed’s story

My name is Ahmed. I am eight years old and I am from Syria. I’ve been having a hard time in school since I moved here. I can’t always understand what my teacher says and the other children make fun of me because I look different. They say I’m not allowed to play soccer with them at lunch time.
This is discrimination and it means I don’t get my right to education, my right to play, or my right to develop my talents and abilities.

Find out what you can do when you’re not getting your rights.