Article 26: Social security benefits

Convention text

1.

The countries that have signed the Convention must ensure that every child has the right to benefit from social security, including social insurance. These countries must take all necessary measures to realise this right, in accordance with their national law.

2.

These countries must, where possible, grant these benefits. In doing so, they must take into account the resources and circumstances of the children and of those responsible for their maintenance, as well as any other considerations relevant to the decision on an application for such benefits.

Key point

Every child has the right to social security benefits, including financial support and services provided by the government to people who need help and support.

Explanation

Children may benefit from social security provisions. However, the Netherlands has made specific reservations in relation to this Article of the Convention. Children may therefore not apply for social security benefits themselves. This was agreed because, in the Netherlands, parents are responsible for the maintenance of their children. They also receive child benefit, which is financial support intended to help parents with the upbringing and care of children under the age of 18.