Ariticle15Setting up or joining groups
- States Parties recognize the rights of the child to freedom of association and to freedom of peaceful assembly.
- No restrictions may be placed on the exercise of these rights other than those imposed in conformity with the law and which are necessary in a democratic society in the interests of national security or public safety, public order (ordre public), the protection of public health or morals or the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.
This article provides for children's “freedom of association,” which is the freedom to form associations and groups, and “freedom of assembly,” which is the freedom to hold and take part in meetings. Even if they are free to have their own ideas, if they do not have the freedom to gather together to share them and take action, they will only be able to think in their own minds. This article regards children as subject exercising rights and recognises their freedom of assembly and association.
Details set out in the article
Paragraph 1 stipulates that children shall be given the “freedom of association” to create their own associations (organizations, associations, groups, etc.) and the “freedom of assembly” to freely hold and participate in meetings. Paragraph 2 provides that the “freedom of association” and the “freedom of assembly” set out in paragraph 1, as in Articles 13 and 14, may be restricted in cases that violate national security, public safety and order, the public health and morals, or the rights and freedoms of others In all other cases, however, the restrictions may not be imposed. When rights are restricted, restrictions are minimum and may not be imposed except as stipulated by law.
