Our role as an independent children’s rights body

NICCY is an Independent Children’s Rights Institution (ICRI).

An ICRI is a body established by law, mandated to promote and protect the rights of all children in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). It must operate independently of government, with a broad mandate covering all rights of children – having sufficient powers to investigate, advise, and monitor, and adequate resources to function effectively.

ICRIs are guided by the Paris Principles, which set international standards for independence, accountability, pluralism, and effectiveness of national human rights institutions. Their functions typically include:

• monitoring laws, policies, and practices affecting children;
• advising government and public authorities;
• promoting awareness and education about children’s rights;
• investigating and addressing violations of children’s rights; and
• ensuring children’s views are heard in matters affecting them.

These institutions are independent from government, which means they can speak out freely and put children’s best interests first. They are guided by the UNCRC, the international agreement that sets out the basic rights all children should have – like the right to be safe; to go to school; to be treated fairly; to have a family life; to play; and to be listened to.