Children have specific rights enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). These rights must be respected by parents, organisations and the government, including in Zoetermeer.
What does the Convention on the Rights of the Child entail?
The CRC was drawn up by the United Nations in 1989 and ratified by the Netherlands in 1995. It encompasses essential rights for children up to 18 years of age, regardless of their place of residence, including Zoetermeer.
Essential Children's Rights
| Right | Description |
|---|---|
| Equal treatment | Every child has the same rights, regardless of background |
| Best interests of the child paramount | Decisions must always benefit the child |
| Right to healthy development | Children have the right to safe and healthy upbringing |
| Right to participation | Children may express their opinion in matters concerning them |
| Contact with both parents | Children have the right to a relationship with both parents |
| Protection against abuse | Children must be protected against violence and neglect |
| Access to education | Every child has the right to quality education |
| Right to leisure | Children may play and relax |
Right to be Heard
In matters concerning them, children in Zoetermeer have the right to make their voice heard:
- From 12 years: the court may invite the child for a discussion
- Under 12 years: the court decides whether the child is heard
- Children can send a letter to the court
- Children may clearly state their own position
Children's Rights in Dutch Law
In the Netherlands, and thus also in Zoetermeer, children's rights are enshrined in various laws:
- Civil Code (regulates parental authority and contact)
- Youth Act (access to youth care)
- Compulsory Education Act (mandatory schooling)
- Child Protection Act
The Role of the Children's Ombudsman
The Children's Ombudsman oversees compliance with children's rights throughout the Netherlands, including Zoetermeer. Children and parents can turn to them with questions or complaints about violations of rights.
Can a child in Zoetermeer initiate a legal procedure themselves?
Children from 12 years of age can submit a request themselves in certain family law matters, for example regarding contact arrangements. For other matters, a legal representative is required.Can a child decide which parent they live with?
A child may indicate where they want to live, and this opinion is taken seriously. However, the court decides what is in the best interests of the child, where the child's preference is not always decisive.What to do in case of violation of children's rights in Zoetermeer?
You can contact a confidential counsellor, Kindertelefoon (0800-0432) or the Children's Ombudsman. In serious situations, you can involve Safe Home or the police.Questions about Children's Rights in Zoetermeer
What if my child is not heard in a court case?
Children from 12 years of age have the right to be heard by the court. For younger children, the court decides. You can submit a request to the District Court of The Hague (district) or enclose a letter from your child. In case of problems, contact the Children's Ombudsman or the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
Can my child choose which parent to live with after a divorce?
Your child may express a preference, but the court determines what is best for the child. From 12 years of age, the opinion carries more weight, but factors such as safety and stability also play a role.
What to do about discrimination at school in Zoetermeer?
Discrimination is not permitted. Discuss this with the school first. If this yields no result, you can file a complaint with the Netherlands Institute for Human Rights or the Children's Ombudsman. In serious cases, you can report it to the police.
How can my child have input in a youth care trajectory?
Your child has the right to be involved in decisions. This can be through a conversation with a care provider, a letter to the court or a confidential counsellor. From 12 years of age, a child can submit a request themselves to the youth court.
What happens if a contact arrangement is not complied with?
The other parent can ask the court to enforce it via the District Court of The Hague. Possible consequences include penalty payments or adjustment of the arrangement. A mediator or lawyer can also help.