IINfancia Bulletin No. 20: Mental health and the rights of children and adolescents in the Americas

IINfancia Bulletin No. 20: Mental health and the rights of children and adolescents in the Americas

The Inter-American Children’s Institute (IIN) of the OAS presents issue No. 20 of the IINfancia Bulletin, a semiannual publication that offers a comprehensive look at the challenges and realities faced by children and adolescents across the Americas.

In each issue, various stakeholders share their approaches, experiences, and perspectives, enriching the regional dialogue on childhood and adolescence.

True to its original spirit, the Bulletin continues the tradition initiated by the Institute in 1927, adapting to new times to remain a space for exchange and reflection on the rights of children and adolescents in the region.

The launch of BoletIIN, as well, commemorates the 36th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, a historic milestone that transformed the way States, institutions, and societies recognize children and adolescents as rights holders. Celebrating this day renews the commitment to build societies that care for, listen to, and prioritize children and adolescents.

Central theme: Mental health and the rights of vhildren and adolescents

This edition addresses a crucial topic: the mental health and rights of children and adolescents — one of the main themes of the XXIII Pan American Congress on Children and the Fourth Pan American childrens Forum.

Through articles written by authors from different countries, the publication explores the multiple dimensions of this issue, aiming to raise awareness about the need to prioritize it in public policy agendas focused on childhood and adolescence.

The Bulletin also includes the resolutions adopted at the XXIII Pan American Congress on Children and Adolescents, as well as the resolution approved by the OAS during its 55th General Assembly, held in Antigua and Barbuda in June 2025 under the theme “Building Resilient and Inclusive Economies in the Americas.” On that occasion, mental health was recognized as a priority for the region’s sustainable and equitable development.

Featured Topics

This edition includes discussions on:

• Parenting and parental skills for comprehensive development.
• Parental burnout.
• Digital exposure of children and adolescents and its relationship with mental health.
• Mental health in adopted children and adolescents.
• Online compulsive gaming.
• Problematic drug use.
• Suicide prevention.