The Preamble first recalls the main themes addressed in the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights and 

also refers to the 1924 Geneva Declaration and finally states that "because of his physical and intellectual 

immaturity, (the child) needs special protection and care, including appropriate legal protection, before and after birth".

1. The text is supplemented by a nomenclature of fundamental principles, which are as follows:
2. The right to equality, without distinction of race, religion or nationality
3. The right to special attention for physical, mental and social development
4. The right to a name and nationality
5. The right to adequate food, housing and medical care
6. The right to special education and care in cases of mental or physical disability
7. The right to understanding and love of parents and society
8. The right to free education and recreational activities
9. The right to priority assistance in all circumstances
10. The right to protection against all forms of cruelty, negligence and exploitation
11. The right to education in a spirit of solidarity, understanding, friendship and justice between peoples

  The Convention's text in PDF format