Together responds to Smith Commission

Date: 30th October 2014
Category: General measures of implementation

Together has published its submission to the Smith Commission's work on devolution of further powers to Scotland.

Focusing on securing and strengthening the protection of children's human rights in Scotland, our proposals are based on the principles embedded in the international human rights system, most specifically the rights enshrined in the UNCRC and the European Convention on Human Rights.

The purpose of Together's submission is to:

• highlight the importance of securing and strengthening the framework for children's human rights across Scotland (both through the Scottish and UK Parliaments)
• ensure that Scotland has the power to protect, respect and fulfil children's rights in line with the UK's international treaty obligations.

The submission highlights the following considerations:

1. The need for a Child Rights Impact Assessment to be carried out on any proposals put forward by the Smith Commission.
2. Ensuring the voices of children and young people are heard and taken into account.
3. Securing and strengthening the existing framework for children's human rights.
4. Ensuring a formal mechanism is put in place at a UK level to ensure that Scotland is routinely and comprehensively involved in international human rights reporting mechanisms.
5. Take account of Scotland's National Action Plan for human rights.
6. Full consideration of the impact any financial settlement might have on the rights of children and young people.

Download the Together Smith Commission response here.