In most countries around the world, children are recognised as persons by law. However, because children do not have the same access to power as adults, they lack the means to defend their rights. It is therefore important that adults recognise the rights of young people. Some argue that this is uniquely the duty of parents. In my view, society as a whole must bear some of this responsibility. In this essay I will outline three measures that can be taken to safeguard the rights of young people.