Vaiko teisių apsaugos institucijų sistema: raida, vaidmuo ir svarba

Abstract

This article analyzes the formation, development, and powers of the system of institutions operating at the executive and municipal levels to ensure the protection of the rights of the child, while assessing the changes in society and the state over three decades. The analysis of legal doctrine, international documents, and scientific works substantiates why only a unified and centralized child protection institution under the executive power, uniting all the functions of ensuring the rights of the child and applying uniform standards, can ensure the successful implementation of children’s rights and international obligations. The article notes that only well-functioning institutions that are able to co-operate with each other, giving priority to the rights and best interests of the child in both decision-making and action, can help children and their parents to exercise their rights and responsibilities towards children. The focus on child’s rights institutions and their activities does not in any way restrict or deny parental rights or responsibilities towards their children, but instead emphasizes the duty of the state to assist parents in exercising their rights and responsibilities towards their children.