The Child Rights Act (2007) is one of Sierra Leone's most important laws for protecting children. It sets out the rights every child has and the responsibilities of parents, guardians, communities, and the state.
But laws are often written in technical language. Many people have heard the name — few know what it really means.
This guide explains the Act in clear, everyday language so parents, teachers, social workers, community leaders, and young people can understand what it protects.
Who Is Considered a Child in This Law?
Under the Act, a child is anyone under 18 years old.
That means all protections in the law apply until a person turns 18, whether they are in school, working, married, or living independently.
The Core Purpose of the Act
The Act exists to:
Protect children from harm, guarantee their basic rights, and ensure families, schools, communities, and government support children's wellbeing and development.
It is built around the principle that children are rights-holders, not property.
Key Rights Protected by the Act
Here are the main rights written into the law — explained simply:
1. The Right to Life, Survival and Development
Children must be protected from preventable death, malnutrition, and neglect.
2. The Right to a Name and Nationality
Every child should be registered at birth and have legal identity.
[Internal link placeholder → Future blog: How to Register a Birth in Sierra Leone]
3. The Right to Education
Every child has a right to attend school — without discrimination.
4. The Right to Health and Medical Care
Children must have access to healthcare, vaccinations, and treatment.
5. Protection from Abuse and Harm
The law prohibits:
- physical abuse
- emotional abuse
- sexual abuse
- harmful traditional practices
- exploitation
6. Protection from Child Marriage
The Act sets 18 as the minimum marriage age, with no exceptions.
You can read our blog on the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024
7. Protection from Child Labour
Children must not work in dangerous, harmful, or exploitative conditions.
Work that interferes with schooling is not allowed.
Parental Responsibilities Under the Act
The Act does not only define rights — it also outlines responsibilities.
Parents and guardians are responsible for:
- caring for and guiding the child
- providing education and healthcare
- protecting the child from harm
- ensuring discipline is reasonable and non-violent
Violence, harsh punishment, or neglect are not permitted under the law.
Who Enforces the Child Rights Act?
Depending on the situation, different actors are responsible, including:
- The Ministry responsible for Social Welfare
- Child Welfare Committees
- Police Family Support Units
- Social workers and probation officers
- Local councils
Cases involving serious harm may go to the Family Court (established under the Act).
You can read our blog on How the Family Court System Works in Sierra Leone
What Happens When Rights Are Violated?
The Act allows for:
- investigation
- protection orders
- temporary foster care
- prosecution of offenders
Each case is handled depending on severity and context.
If a child is at risk, the law prioritises: the best interest of the child.
Evidence Snapshot
| Indicator | Latest Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| % of girls married before 18 | 30% | DHS 2019 Sierra Leone |
| % of children with birth certificates | 31% (90% registered) | Integrated Early Childhood Development Policy (2021) |
| % reporting violent discipline in the household | 86.5% | MICS 2017 |
Q&A Block
Question: What is the Child Rights Act (2007) in Sierra Leone?
Answer: The Child Rights Act (2007) is the national law that protects the rights and welfare of children under 18 in Sierra Leone. It guarantees rights to education, healthcare, identity, and protection from abuse, child marriage, violence, and harmful labour. The Act also establishes responsibilities for parents, communities, and government to ensure children grow up safe and supported.
How to Cite This Law
Suggested format:
Government of Sierra Leone. (2007). The Child Rights Act. Freetown: Government Printing Office. Available at Sabi Salone.
In Summary
The Child Rights Act (2007) is more than a legal document — it is a promise:
Every child in Sierra Leone deserves safety, dignity, and opportunity.
Understanding the law is the first step toward ensuring it is applied in homes, schools, workplaces, and communities across the country.
Want to explore the full Act?
Ask Sabi Salone to search through the complete Child Rights Act (2007) and find specific sections, articles, and provisions.
How to Cite This Blog Post
If you would like to reference this article in your work, here are suggested citation formats:
APA 7th Edition
Sabi Salone. (2025). Understanding the Child Rights Act (2007) in Sierra Leone: What it means for children and families. Retrieved from https://sabisalone.tech/blog/child-rights-act-2007-sierra-leone-explained
Harvard Style
Sabi Salone (2025) Understanding the Child Rights Act (2007) in Sierra Leone: What it means for children and families. Available at: https://sabisalone.tech/blog/child-rights-act-2007-sierra-leone-explained (Accessed: [insert date]).
Chicago Style
Sabi Salone. "Understanding the Child Rights Act (2007) in Sierra Leone: What It Means for Children and Families." Last modified 2025. https://sabisalone.tech/blog/child-rights-act-2007-sierra-leone-explained.