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Optional Protocol III to the Convention on the Rights of the Child
Treaty Type:
Multilateral
Common Name:
Optional Protocol on a complaints procedure (OPCP)
Responsible Department:
Foreign Affairs and Trade
Administering Department:
Treaty Summary:
Most United Nations international human rights treaties have a ‘communications mechanism’ which provides the opportunity for individuals to submit a communication to a UN Committee alleging that their human rights have been violated. The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), ratified by New Zealand in 1993 when first adopted did not have such a mechanism. The Optional Protocol III establishes this mechanism.
NZ Adherence Status:
In Progress
Negotiation Status:
Multilateral. The Council transmitted the text to the UN General Assembly for adoption and opening for signature in 2012. New Zealand undertook to consider the implications of signing and ratifying the OP-CRC-IC as part of its commitment to the CRC at the conclusion of New Zealand's UPR in 2014 and 2018. No decision has been taken yet on whether New Zealand will become Party to the Protocol.
Organisation:
Is Signed By NZ:
No
Signature Date:
Ratified or Signed:
No
Requires Ratification:
No
NZ Territorial Applications:
None
Information about required Legislation:
Impacts on Maori:
The potential impact on Maori interests is still under review and will be considered alongside and in consultation with Maori as the discussions around whether New Zealand will become a party to the protocol continue.
Impacts on Stakeholders:
NGOs active in the area of children’s rights will be interested in the opportunities offered by the protocol. No decision has been taken yet on whether New Zealand will become Party to the Protocol.
Link To Legislation:
Treaty Text Link:
Contact Information:
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