Article 3 1.
In all actions concerning children, whether undertaken by public or
private social welfare institutions, courts of law, administrative authorities or
legislative bodies, the best interests of the child shall be a primary
consideration.
2.
States Parties undertake to ensure the child such protection and care
as is necessary for his or her well-being, taking into account the rights and
duties of his or her parents, legal guardians, or other individuals legally
responsible for him or her, and, to this end, shall take all appropriate
legislative and administrative measures.
Article 9 1. States Parties shall ensure that a child shall not be separated from his
or her parents against their will, except when competent authorities subject
to judicial review determine, in accordance with applicable law and
procedures, that such separation is necessary for the best interests of the
child. Such determination may be necessary in a particular case such as one
involving abuse or neglect of the child by the parents, or one where the
parents are living separately and a decision must be made as to the child’s
place of residence.
Article 12 1.
States Parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his
or her own views the right to express those views freely in all matters
affecting the child, the views of the child being given due weight in
accordance with the age and maturity of the child.
2.
For this purpose, the child shall in particular be provided the
opportunity to be heard in any judicial and administrative proceedings
affecting the child, either directly, or through a representative or an
appropriate body, in a manner consistent with the procedural rules of
national law.
Article 14 1.
States Parties shall respect the right of the child to freedom of
thought, conscience and religion.
2.
States Parties shall respect the rights and duties of the parents and,
when applicable, legal guardians, to provide direction to the child in the
exercise of his or her right in a manner consistent with the evolving
capacities of the child.