Memorandum by the National Society for
the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC)
In response to the House of Lords European Union
Select Committee Inquiry into the impact of the Reform Treaty
on the EU Institutions, Save the Children and the NSPCC would
like to draw your attention to the attached briefing (not printed).
The briefing is supported by the UK's leading children's charities
and outlines the benefits of the Treaty for children's rights.
The inclusion of children's rights represents a significant step
forward in their protection.
Of particular relevance to this Inquiry is that
the Treaty specifies that European Union citizens, including civil
society organisations should be properly consulted as part of
the EU democratic process (Article 8b). In this way, children's
organisations as well as children and young people themselves
should be better involved in the development of policies and have
a say in the protection and promotion of children's rights throughout
the EU's activities.
We hope that you find the briefing of use and
that it highlights the impact that upholding children's rights
can have on the decision-making processes of both EU institutions
and Member State governments.
Kathleen Spencer Chapman
European Advisor
NSPCC
Louise King
UK Policy Advisor Child Rights and Protection
Save the Children
13 December 2007
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