Child Human Rights Defenders
Interactive
Implementation Guide
5.4. Access to Resources
DHRD Article 13
Everyone has the right, individually and in association with others, to solicit, receive and utilize resources for the express purpose of promoting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms through peaceful means, in accordance with article 3 of the present Declaration.
Many CHRDs rely on local, national and international civil society organizations for support for their activity. However, there is increasing concern about a lack of funding for civil society organizations and for children’s organizations in particular. Moreover, funding for children is more likely to be given for specific projects and protection rather than for initiatives designed to support their activity as HRDs. Funding for protection and funding for HRDs activities must be available to children. The ability to seek and receive resources for human rights activity is especially important for CHRDs who may find it difficult to form their own organizations and to seek and receive money because they are children. States should also ensure that children are able to access and take part in civil society organizations and that these organizations are not prohibited from seeking and receiving funding nationally and internationally.