Defence for Children International (DCI) is an independent, grassroots organization, founded in Geneva, Switzerland in 1979. Its mission is to promote and protect the rights of the child through international action.

DCI played a significant role in the creation and the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which was adopted November 20, 1989. DCI has national sections in 45 countries. DCI has consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, the ILO, UNICEF, UNESCO and the Council of Europe.

International Secretariat

Located in Geneva, the International Secretariat is the focal point of DCI as an international movement. The International Secretariat focuses mainly on lobbying, research, networking and advocacy work, primarily around issues of juvenile justice, as well as carrying out technical assistance and capacity building to its national sections.

Visit the web site of the DCI International Secretariat

Defence for Children International-Canada

The Canadian Section of DCI was recognized as part of the Defence for Children International movement in June 1989 and incorporated in Canada as a non-profit organization in 1990.

DCI-Canada monitors governments’ compliance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child both in Canada and around the world. We also promote the full implementation of the Convention through research, education, development and youth participation projects.

More Information

Directors and Officers
Contact Us
Links to DCI Sections Around the World