10 years of OPIC - Pathways of Access to Justice for Children
The 10th annual symposium on the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a Communications Procedure (OPIC) took place in Leiden from 10 to 12 April 2024. The Leiden Children’s Rights Observatory, in collaboration with the Leiden Law Academy in partnership with UNICEF and the Petitions Section of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, organised this symposium.
“A historic moment, also for the city of Leiden,” Rick van Egmond stated.
“OPIC is the protocol that enables children or their representatives to file a complaint with the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child,” according to Rick van Egmond, event manager of the symposium and Coordinator of Conferences and Events at Leiden Law Academy. “The Committee monitors whether countries comply with children's rights. Everyone wants to be part of the club: nearly all countries send delegations to the Committee in Geneva to discuss children's rights.”
This year was a special edition of the symposium, as the event celebrated its 10th anniversary. Seven of the 18 members of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child were also present. “A historic moment, also for the city of Leiden,” Rick stated. The symposium offered a unique opportunity for academics, professionals, government officials, children and youth and non-governmental stakeholders to come together, share knowledge and experiences and plan for better access to justice for children through OPIC.
"An inspiring and knowledgeable environment to be proud of, Leiden as the City of Science truly honours the city."
The symposium took place in the Academy Building of Leiden University, the oldest part of the university, which combines a rich history with modern facilities. In addition to the Academy Building, the participants also enjoyed other parts of Leiden. According to Rick, the city was appreciated by many: “Many attendees planned to stay longer to visit museums, as well as to experience the flower season.” To make it easier for the participants, Leiden Convention Bureau also provided City Guides and City Maps. Rick concluded: “An inspiring environment to be proud of. Leiden as [the] City of Science does the city great credit.”