Background and Aim: The right to health is one of the most important manifestations of children’s rights. The right to play significantly influences a child’s mental and physical health. However, the child’s right to play is often considered a forgotten right. Despite being one of the fundamental aspects of children’s rights, its essential nature has been less explored. The inherent philosophy of children’s inclination toward play has been embedded in their being since creation, making the right to play neither optional nor supplementary. Instead, it is among the inalienable fundamental rights that deserve special attention due to its role in fostering children’s growth and flourishing. Conversely, neglecting this right leads to irreparable harm and its deprivation constitutes a violation of children’s rights. This research elucidates the concept and philosophical rationale for the child’s right to play and recreation as a fundamental human right, aiming to answer the question of why recognizing this right is necessary and how it impacts children’s physical and mental health. Additionally, it examines States obligations in identifying this fundamental right for children.
Method: This study is applied in purpose and descriptive-analytical in nature. It collects and analyzes data through library resources, examining a wide range of documents, practices and research works.
Ethical Considerations: The principles of academic ethics, particularly fidelity in citation, preservation of the article’s originality and obtaining informed consent from participants, have been observed in the preparation of this article.
Results: Children, as one of the most vulnerable groups in society who have been exploited in various forms over the years, have a greater right to joy, play and engaging recreational activities than anyone else. This right manifests in various aspects of children’s lives, including the right to health, education and participation in cultural life. In other words, the child’s right to play serves as a bridge to better realizing other children’s rights. This right is an essential tool for education, talent development, enhancing individual and social skills, fostering communication and empathy and more.
Conclusion: The right to play and recreation is one of the most critical components of children’s lives, particularly in an era dominated by technological phenomena. Through various forms of play, children acquire essential skills for shaping their future lives. Therefore, play, recreation and entertainment are key factors in fostering children’s growth and talent development. Play is a primary driver of children’s growth and learning, enhancing their sense of independence, social skills and experience of adventure and excitement. The right to play and recreation is an influential element in promoting children’s physical and mental health.
Please cite this article as:
Seyed Nasseri MM, Jamali M, Abbasi M. Recognizing the Right to Play and Recreation as a Fundamental Right in Realizing Children’s Right to Health. Medical Law Journal. 2024; 18: e54
Type of Study:
Original Article |
Received: 2024/09/21 | Accepted: 2025/01/9