In March 2013, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) released General Comment 17 which focuses on Article 31. Article 31 of the UNCRC formally enshrines the child’s right to play and the right to engage in other recreational activities, including participation in cultural activities and the arts.

The release of the General Comment has been highly significant in that it:

• Clarifies the meaning and importance of Article 31
• Helps to define the key elements of the article
• Explains the importance of play, recreation, cultural and artistic participation to the growth, development and well-being of children
• Provides a series of actions which are required in order to fully realise the rights enshrined in Article 31.