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My parents regularly read my correspondence, search through my bedroom and check my phone. They don’t respect my private life and say that as my parents they have the right to control my correspondence, as well as my SMS and calls. Is that really the case?

No, your parents aren’t right. Article 16 of the International Children Rights Convention clearly provides that you have a private life. Everyone should respect it, even your parents. Therefore, they don’t have, in general, the right to control your phone or to open your letters without your consent. However, this right of a private life has its boundaries regarding your education and protection. Parents have the legal obligation to protect and educate you. They have to look out that you don’t misbehave. Therefore, it’s mandatory to find a compromise.