Título en español.

Abstract

According to the World Health Organization (2008), inequalities and inequities in health are the result of social and economic policies that have crucial effects on the possibilities for a child to develop his or her potential, or simply lose his or her life. Because of the colonial relationship of Puerto Rico with the United States, it is essential to analyze how federal policy, changes in the global economy, and local neoliberal discourses that support privatization inform policies that address child rights. This paper seeks to explore and illustrate the impact of recent neoliberal mental health policies on health rights. Recommendations relevant to the field of social work are discussed with the ultimate goal of reflecting and promoting ethical political actions in the profession.