2.1 Introduction

In the first study session of this module, we discussed the principle of children as active participants. Children have a right to be involved in the decisions made by adults on their behalf. In this session, we explore the right of children to have their best interests given consideration when adults are making decisions about them, as well as the right not to be discriminated against.

Both the UN Convention and the African Charter emphasise the importance of best interests and non-discrimination. These are two of the guiding principles you studied in Module 2. This session will explain what these two rights mean, their implications for you as a health worker, and will provide guidance on how to apply them in your day-to-day practice

2 Best interests of the child and non-discrimination

2.2 Learning outcomes