Why do you think children’s participation rights matter?
Children’s participation, for their rights matter because it actively includes the child and their wants and needs when considering rights that affect them. When children are able to participate in making rights that affect their lives, they have more control and power over their lives. Children’s participation also give children the platform and opportunity to express their concerns, and if authorities who can make a difference are willing to listen, then there might even be change for children’s rights. Although parents or adults might feel they know what is best for a child, if they do not take the child’s opinion, wants or needs into account, then the adults’ decision might not be the best outcome. Furthermore, all children, in all “cultures” are different, thus if children are not participating in their rights, then the rules might not take into account their cultural needs.
2. How does the inclusion of children’s participation in the UNCRC implicate States Parties that have ratified the treaty?
Including children’s participation in the UNCRC makes State Parties respect and respond to children’s rights. It makes States responsible to fulfill the rights of children, and to listen to and have the best interest of the child placed first.
3. What do children’s rights have to do with citizenship and democratic processes that are inclusive and empowering?
The number one participation method used for any adult who is a citizen in a democratic country is the right to vote. Thus, if we view children as fully cohesive, matured, opinionated individuals, then, they too should be able to have the power to demonstrate their civil right to vote. However, this is not the case. There are laws that implement a minimum age of 18 to be able to vote. Yet, I know more “children” at 15 and 16 who have experienced a lot more in life, and are more mature, than an 18 year old “adult.”