Child and Adolescent Rights in Brazil

Abstract

This paper presents a summary of the status of child and adolescent rights in Brazil. It describes the evolution of the legislation, particularly after the implementation of the Child and Adolescent Statute (eca). Analyzed topics include life, identity, health, protection, education, and housing. The violation of child and youth rights is also considered, with an emphasis on child labour, sexual violence, and exploitation. Although much progress has been made in terms of protecting and guaranteeing such rights, Brazil is far from attaining the ideals determined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child (crc) and the eca. For this to happen, a culture of respect for child and adolescent rights has to be implemented in Brazil.