ACN Youth Committee empowered by human rights workshop

The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission has held a human rights workshop with the Active Communities Network (ACN) in Belfast.

Young people from ACN’s Youth Committee explored the work of the Commission, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the rights contained in the Human Rights Act.

They discussed the issues affecting children and young people in Northern Ireland, as raised by the Commission’s annual statement. These included the age of criminal responsibility, child poverty and the use of spit and bite guards.

Tori Haveron, from the ACN said:

“Our Youth Committee are always keen to learn more about the issues affecting not only Young People but wider society across Northern Ireland. They have openly expressed their gratitude to the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission for educating them on issues they had not considered as infringements of their human rights.

We at ACN appreciate the opportunity to not only educate our Youth Committee but share the vision of tackling inequality of all forms. The session was delivered to a high standard and the youth committee thoroughly enjoyed all aspects.

Big thanks to Michael and Jason for taking the time to visit us and engage with our youth committee.”

Chief Commissioner Alyson Kilpatrick added:

“It was heart-warming to see the enthusiasm the young people had for discussing, and their interest in learning more about their own rights. This is important because we want to empower young people to know and realise their rights. It was also great to hear about some of the projects the Youth Committee has been working on, and I cannot fail to be impressed by their efforts to make a positive impact in the community. We wish the young people all the best with their projects and future initiatives.”

ENDS

Additional information

Photo: Representatives from the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission with members of the Active Communities Network Youth Committee.

Notes to Editors

1.The NI Human Rights Commission is a statutory public body established in 1999 to promote and protect human rights. In accordance with the Paris Principles the Commission reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of measures undertaken by the UK Government to promote and protect human rights, specifically within Northern Ireland.

2. Active Communities Network is a sport for development charity which uses sport as a pathway into education, training and employment. For more information please access through the following link: http://www.activecommunities.org.uk/

3. If you are interested in having the Commission speak to your post-primary students, please contact Michael.boyd@nihrc.org