In brief: children’s rights in Russia are governed by the Constitution, family and civil legislation, and special statutory guarantees. In a particular case, family matters, property, education, medical care and protection from harm should be separated because each may involve a different procedure and authority.
Main areas of protection
- Family and upbringing: a child has the right to live and be brought up in a family where possible, to know their parents and to receive their care.
- Property: transactions involving a minor’s property depend on age, the nature of the transaction and involvement of legal representatives; consent from a guardianship authority may be required in some cases.
- Education, health and safety: specialised laws and the procedures of the relevant organisations apply.
- Protection where rights are affected: the facts, documents and the authority competent to consider the issue are all important.
Who represents a child’s interests
Parents, adoptive parents, guardians and custodians normally protect a child’s rights. Where there is a conflict of interests, absence of parental care or a threat to the child’s rights, a guardianship authority, prosecutor or court may become involved. The person who may act depends on the circumstances and the child’s age.
Preparing an application
- Describe the specific problem and desired outcome.
- Collect relevant documents, such as certificates, decisions, correspondence, medical or educational records.
- Identify the competent body: a school, medical organisation, guardianship authority, commission, prosecutor or court.
- Keep proof of submission and every response received.
Property matters
Do not confuse a child’s ownership rights with a parent’s right to use accommodation or manage ordinary household expenses. Transactions involving real property, shares, deposits or other material assets require a separate review of the applicable basis and restrictions.
Official sources
The Russian Family Code sets out core family rights of children and mechanisms for their protection. The exact procedure depends on the facts and on specialised rules that may apply.
Russian Family Code — official text
Convention on the Rights of the Child — official resource