Article 15: Freedom of assembly and association

Convention text

1. 

Children have the right to meet peacefully and to form and join associations. This is agreed by the countries that have signed the Convention.

2.

The rights set out in paragraph 1 may be restricted only if such restrictions are provided for by law and are necessary in a democratic society for public safety, order, health or morals, or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.

Key point

Children have the right to meet and to join associations.

Explanation

Children have the right to meet peacefully. They may also join associations and set up their own. This means, for example, that they are free to set up a youth council in their neighbourhood, at school or in a youth care institution. They may also join a sports club, such as a football club, or a cultural association, such as a theatre group. If a gathering or association is harmful to others, this right may be restricted.