Protecting Child Rights in Esports

Esports has become a global phenomenon, with an estimated 250-300 million children participating in competitive gaming, yet limited attention has been paid to how their rights, wellbeing, and development are protected within this rapidly evolving ecosystem. This report examines the experiences of Youth Esports Athletes through the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), drawing on a review of academic literature and consultations with stakeholders from across the esports sector. It identifies nine key challenges affecting children in esports, including safeguarding, education, health, participation, inclusion, exploitation, and risks associated with professional pathways and live events. The findings highlight significant gaps in governance, accountability, and child-centred practices, while also identifying practical opportunities for improvement. By applying a child-rights lens to esports, the report provides evidence-based recommendations for game developers, tournament organisers, teams, federations, policymakers, schools, and parents. Its central message is that under-18 esports participants are children first and competitors second, and that a coordinated, rights-respecting approach is needed to ensure esports develops as a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for young people.