Adolescent Rights and Protections

Adolescence is a time of significant change and growth. During this time, young people are developing their own identities, becoming more independent, and exploring their relationships with others. It is also a time when they are particularly vulnerable to abuse and exploitation.

There are a number of international and national laws that protect the rights of adolescents. These laws include the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child Pornography.

These laws set out a number of important rights for adolescents, including the right to:

• Life and survival
• Health and well-being
• Education
• Protection from harm
• Participation in decision-making

In addition to these international and national laws, there are also a number of state and local laws that protect the rights of adolescents. These laws vary from state to state, but they generally address issues such as child abuse, neglect, and sexual exploitation.

It is important for adolescents to be aware of their rights and to know how to protect themselves from abuse and exploitation. If you are an adolescent who is being abused or exploited, please reach out for help. There are a number of resources available to you, including:

• The National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD
• The National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE
• The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE You can also get help online at RAINN’s website: https://www.rainn.org

You are not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help you. Please reach out for help today.