The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Rights of Trans Children in Scotland

Abstract In January 2024, Scotland incorporated the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child ( crc ) into domestic law, strengthening commitments to child rights. Trans children are vulnerable to a wide range of rights violations in systems and institutions impacted by ignorance, pathologisation or prejudice. This article outlines trans children’s rights under the crc , drawing attention to implications for organisations working with trans children across Scotland and beyond. It applies crc rights to key policy arenas, including Scotland’s failed gender recognition reform, trans children’s healthcare, and segregation policies introduced in 2025, highlighting areas of recognised or potential rights violations. The article then examines the processes that can enable rights-based policy and practice for trans children. This can include monitoring and recording trans children’s rights violations, and efforts to enhance child participation and child accountability. The article emphasises the importance of targeted action to uphold trans children’s rights under the crc . Institutions need to critically appraise current approaches, protecting trans children’s rights and ensuring compatibility with crc obligations.