Commentary on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, Article 14: The Right to Freedom of Thought, Conscience and Religion

Eva Brems is Professor of Human Rights Law at the Human Rights Centre, Ghent University, Belgium.

• List of Abbreviations; Author Biography; Text of Article 14; Chapter One Introduction; Chapter Two Comparison with Related International Human Rights Provisions; 1. Freedom of Thought, Conscience and Religion (Article 14(1) and (3)); 2. Parental Guidance (Article 14(2) CRC); Chapter Three Scope of Article 14; 1. Introduction; 2. Para. 1: ‘States Parties shall respect the right of the child to freedom of thought, conscience and religion’; 2.1 Freedom of Thought; 2.2 Freedom of Conscience; 2.3 Freedom of Religion; 3. Para. 2: ‘States Parties shall respect the rights and duties of the parents and, when applicable, legal guardians, to provide direction to the child in the exercise of his or her right in a manner consistent with the evolving capacities of the child.’; 4. Para. 3: ‘Freedom to manifest one’s religion or beliefs may be subject only to such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary to protect public safety, order, health, or morals or the fundamental rights and freedoms of others.’.