An Analysis of Research Conducted with School Children into Children’s Rights in Northern Ireland

Abstract

This report provides a detailed analysis of the submissions made by children and young people who contributed to a research project, which examined the state of children’s rights and welfare in Northern Ireland. The aim of this research funded by the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People, was to identify the gaps, problems and difficulties in the protection, promotion and implementation of children’s rights in Northern Ireland. The analysis, which follows focuses on the submissions received from 1067 school children from 27 schools drawn from the five Education and Library Boards in Northern Ireland. These children were aged between 5 and 16 (and up to 19 years of age in special schools) and were educated in mainstream schools, special schools and Irish medium schools. In identifying areas where children’s rights are underplayed or ignored, this research aims to assist the Commissioner’s understanding of the state of children’s rights in Northern Ireland as well as inform debate around consultation on the Commissioner’s priorities.