Violation of the rights of a young person
Failing to respect the rights of a child who needs need protection is called violating the rights of a young person
Young people need protection if their security or development is in danger, such as if an adult is abusing them. If the people responsible for a child fail to respect that child’s rights, this is also considered a violation of the rights of a young person.
Violation of the rights of a young person also refers to situations concerning people under age 18 who are or could be under the responsibility of the Director of Youth Protection (DYP).
Examples of violations of the rights of a young person
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Violation of the right to be consulted
A 17-year-old girl is having serious problems at home. Someone reports her situation to the DYP. The DYP assesses the situation without consulting with the girl.
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Violation of the right to communicate
A 5-year-old child has been placed in a rehabilitation centre. Her father wants to visit her, but the centre’s executive director refuses the child’s request for a visit.
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Violation of the right to legal counsel
The executive director of an institution makes the decision to place a teenager in an intensive supervision unit. The teenager wants to speak with his lawyer to challenge this decision, but is not allowed to do so.
How can I prevent violation of the rights of a young person?
Do you believe that you have either experienced or witnessed a violation of the rights of a young person?
If so, the Commission can help you determine whether you should request an investigation or report the situation to the Director of Youth Protection (DYP).
Examples of youth protection
Learn about our involvement to protect young people’s rights in various situations.
- Child removed from foster home
- Young person denied outings
- Supervision of contact between a mother and her child