Why is this important?
In the so-called Third or Developing World, about 51 million
children every year are not registered at birth. For example, in Malawi, even after the
Government made birth registration compulsory, only 10% of under-fives were
registered. This means they have no documented identity.
Without a
birth certificate many children
- may not go to school
- may not receive special protection as a minor
- cannot obtain a passport
- cannot inherit money or property
- cannot open a bank account
- cannot vote or stand for election
This is also an issue in Europe in particular for Roma families. One major obstacle that prevents many Roma, as EU citizens from accessing social and health services is the lack of appropriate documentation, including birth certificates. Member States should remove bureaucratic, administrative and financial obstacles which facilitate birth registration. (Eurodiaconia)
ReplyDeleteToday I learn about birth certificates in the United Kingdom.A birth certificate is a vital way of recording the birth of a new baby. It also helps countries and local councils keep a close check on the population growth. There are two forms to which the term birth certificate can refer to. The first is known as the original document, the second is a certified copy which represents the original record of birth.
ReplyDeleteThe birth certificate gives the individual an official identity from the moment it is born. Since 1827 the registering of births and also deaths and marriages has been common practice in the United Kingdom. Initially there were no fines for not registering the arrival of a new baby boy or girl, that however, changed before long because keeping an eye on the changes in population numbers, gave a better indication of the spending required in the coming years ahead, in terms of education, transport, and any the availability of manpower, should the need arise. Possibly due to Britain's acquisition of countries it called its commonwealth, the racial mix of the British population was very varied. Every birth certificate from the United Kingdom, will include details about the birth, such as the name and gender of the child, the name(s) of the parents, even sometimes the race of the baby is required. Crucially details like date of birth and location of birth add up to make up the identity of the person.