The Children’s Rights Education Fund is an initiative that strengthens global leadership in children’s rights by offering financial support to students of the Advanced LL.M. in International Children’s Rights at Leiden Law School.

The fund addresses the financial barriers that prevent talented professionals from low- and middle-income countries from accessing this one-of-a-kind programme, ensuring that those most committed to advancing children’s rights can take part. It seeks to bridge the funding gap by providing essential financial support for tuition, housing, travel, and related costs. In doing so, it enables future leaders to focus on their studies and practical training, equipping them to return to their home countries with the expertise, skills, and networks to drive transformative change.

The Fund builds on Leiden University’s leading role in international children’s rights research and education and is closely connected to the Advanced LL.M. alumni network that now spans ministries, courts, NGOs, and UN agencies across the world.

Sharing experiences and insights

Students from under-resourced regions who join the programme bring unique perspectives and lived experiences into the classroom. With the support of the Children's Rights Education Fund, they are able to engage in rigorous academic learning, skills-building, and real-world legal practice, preparing them to address urgent challenges such as child migration, children in conflict situations, climate change, children’s rights in the digital domain etc.

Would you like to get involved?

We welcome contributions from individuals, foundations, and institutions who wish to invest in the next generation of children’s rights defenders. You can make a direct contribution via our crowdfunding page.

We also welcome support such as mentorships, guidance and skill building. If you would like to learn more and/or contribute in any of these ways, please do not hesitate to reach out by contacting childrensrights@LAW.leidenuniv.nl