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xOne year on: UNCRC Act celebrated across Scotland
Date: 22nd July 2025
Category:
General measures of implementation, General principles
Tuesday 16th July 2024 marked a milestone moment for children’s rights in Scotland with the commencement of the UNCRC (Incorporation) (Scotland) Act 2024 (‘the Act’) this month, we celebrate one full year of this landmark legislation being in force. Together celebrates a year of progress and renewed commitment to children's rights.
Its introduction was a landmark moment, making Scotland the first UK nation to incorporate the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child into domestic law. The Act gives children and their representatives new legal routes to challenge when their rights are not upheld.
Together celebrates this important anniversary while recognising that there is still much work to do. Continued action is needed from public bodies, professionals and communities to remove barriers and make rights real for every child.
Together’s member Children in Scotland shared their reflections on the anniversary. CEO Dr Judith Turbyne said:
“The incorporation of UNCRC last year was such an important moment for Scotland. As a country, we signalled our intent to put children's rights into the very core of our policy making. We should celebrate the anniversary and then roll up our sleeves. There is a lot of work to be done to make sure that the intention becomes reality for all children across Scotland.”
Sistema Scotland also published a reflective piece highlighting the voices of young people involved in their Big Noise United Orchestra. The article celebrates how music can empower children and ensure they are heard, especially those experiencing poverty. By removing barriers like fees and providing meals, Big Noise helps children realise their rights and potential. Yet, they stress that more must be done to ensure all children grow up loved, safe and respected.
Meanwhile, Together member, Children and Young People’s Centre for Justice (CYCJ) marked the anniversary by highlighting Section 3 of their Child and Human Rights in Practice guide, calling on professionals to consider how they embed rights and responsibilities in daily work.
The first anniversary of the Act is both a milestone and a reminder of the continued and concerted effort needed to ensure that babies, children and young people across Scotland have their rights upheld.
Building on this, the Scottish Parliament will publish an annual report outlining the progress it has made in upholding children’s rights, along with its future plans to uphold those rights further.
We’re keen to hear your thoughts on what’s helpful in this report and what could be improved in future reports. Together will be discussing the report with our members at the next UNCRC Implementation Strategy Group meeting. All members are welcome! If you’re not yet a member but would like to join, get in touch here to find out how to get involved.