CRC/C/ARG/CO/5-6

Argentina (CRC 01-10-2018)

The Committee considered the combined fifth and sixth periodic reports of Argentina (CRC/C/ARG/5-6) at its 2283rd and 2284th meetings (see CRC/C/SR.2283 and 2284), held on 14 and 15 May 2018, and adopted the present concluding observations at its 2310th meeting, held on 1 June 2018.

Concluding observations

B. General principles (arts. 2, 3, 6 and 12)

Non-discrimination

14. The Committee recognizes the adoption of anti-discrimination legislation and the development of a national plan against discrimination. It remains deeply concerned, however, at reports of persisting de facto discrimination, social exclusion and physical, sexual and psychological abuse of children on the grounds of disability, indigenous origin and socioeconomic status. In this regard, the Committee reiterates its previous recommendations (CRC/C/ARG/CO/3-4, para. 33), and urges the State party:

(a) To ensure full implementation of relevant existing laws prohibiting discrimination, including by strengthening public education campaigns to address negative social attitudes towards indigenous children, children with disabilities, minority children, children from migrant backgrounds, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex children;

(b) To ensure that children living in rural areas and in indigenous communities are not discriminated against in their access to quality education, adequate health care and housing;                                     

(c) To introduce a unit within the National Institute against Discrimination, Xenophobia and Racism to address cases of discrimination against children;

(d) To ensure that all cases of discrimination against children are addressed effectively, including by disseminating accessible information about what constitutes discrimination, establishing disciplinary, administrative or, if necessary, penal sanctions, and guaranteeing children’s access to psychosocial and legal counselling in cases of discrimination.

D. Violence against children (arts. 19, 24 (3), 28 (2), 34, 37 (a) and 39)

Harmful practices

26. The Committee recommends that the State party develop and implement a rights-based health-care protocol for intersex children, ensuring that no child is subjected to unnecessary surgery or treatment and that children are involved, to the greatest extent possible, in decision-making about their treatment and care. Families with intersex children should be provided with adequate counselling and support.