This Week's Article of the Week is:
Article 37: I have the right not to be punished in a cruel or hutrtful way.
Article 37 of the UNCRC says that children and young people:
- shouldn’t be tortured
- shouldn’t be imprisoned for life with no chance of release
- shouldn’t lose their freedom for no reason or in a way that is illegal.
Being Arrested:
Article 37 covers what happens if a child or young person commits a crime. It says they shouldn’t be arrested unless there are no other options, and that they have a right for lawyers to give them advice about their situation and represent them in court. If a child or young person is placed in detention they should remain there for the shortest possible time, and should:
- be treated with respect
- if in their best interest, be kept apart from adults
- have their age taken into account when people think about their needs.
Losing your Freedom:
Article 37 also applies to young people who are detained without committing a crime. Some people who might be in this situation include:
- people with disabilities
- people who have recently entered the country
- people in secure accommodation.
