Governments are obligated to recognize the full spectrum of human rights for all children as well as to consider children in legislative and policy decisions. While many nations are beginning to pay close attention to children's views on many important issues, the process of change is still in its earliest stages.
Children have a right to express their opinions and have their views taken seriously and given due weight. But children also have the responsibility of respecting the rights of others, particularly those of their parents.
The Convention specifically refers to the family as the fundamental group of society and the natural environment for the growth and well-being of its members. Under the Convention, nations are forced to respect parents' primary responsibilities for providing care and guidance for children and to support parents in this regard by providing material assistance and support programs. States are also obligated to prevent children from being separated from their families unless the separation is necessary for the child's best interests.
References:
http://www.unicef.org/crc/
http://www.unicef.org/crc/index_30168.html
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