Media release - Young people speak out about their right to rights

23/05/2007

Young people are often discriminated against and viewed as villains or potential troublemakers, youth from across the state have told the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission.

The young people’s concerns are documented in a report on the recent Human Rights Youth Forum. The forum, held by the Commission in association with Youth Law, attracted over 70 youth delegates from across Victoria who were sponsored by their local councils to attend.

Lack of respect within the broader community and negative public perceptions about young people was one of the main areas of concern.

“We are targeted because we have less influence in public life,” said one young person. “Everybody should have the freedom to express themselves and live free from discrimination.”

Other concerns included lack of access to services, support and safe public spaces, employment issues including the recent IR changes, rights in criminal proceedings and young people’s experience of discrimination in relation to race, religion and disability.

The young people were also concerned about broader human rights issues affecting Australia and the world, such as treatment of refugees, anti-terrorism laws, and poverty.

“Human rights are the backbone of a civilized society,” one young person told the Commission. “They are the basic, universal principles that should apply to all people and be reflected in legislation.”

Commission Chief Executive, Dr Helen Szoke, said the attitudes of the young people were inspiring.

“The overwhelming response to this forum shows that human rights are an important issue for today’s youth,” she said. “Young people have a chance to be valuable advocates for the human rights values of freedom, equality, respect and dignity.”

The Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities outlines rights such as the freedom from discrimination, freedom of expression and the right to take part in public life.

Youth delegates at the Youth Forum learnt about the rights contained within the Charter, how these rights can be applied to young people, and how young people can address human rights issues in their local communities.

The 2007 Human Rights Youth Forum report was released by the Commission this week.

Media enquiries to Jessica Ardley, (03) 92817133 or 0428 881 254