About
Defence for Children International
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.
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.
Board of Directors
Directors and officers elected at the Annual General Meeting 2022
- Agnes Samler (President)
- William Sparks (Vice President)
- Jane Stewart
- Irwin Elman
- Jason Maher
- Eric Plato
Patrons Council
DCI-Canada is proud to present our Patron’s Council. The Council is made up of individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to the rights of children in Canada and across the world.
All of our current Patrons are previous Grant Lowery Lecturers. Patron’s Council members lend their names to demonstrate their support for Defence for Children International-Canada and for the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
- Dr. Cindy Blackstock
- Dr. Clive Chamberlain
- Gordon Cressy
- Muzvare Betty Makoni
- Senator Kim Pate
- Senator Landon Pearson
- Judge George Thomson
