1) I think that children and young people's participation rights matter from a structural social work perspective because it helps allow this demographic to overcome the barriers of ageism they may face in the world of policy where there voices have not traditionally been heard or considered when these policies are established or amended even though such policies often have a direct impact on their lives and the lives of their family members.
2) The inclusion of children participation in the UNCRC implicate States Parties that have ratified the treaty through the radical reconsideration of the rights of the child. This is a new shift in our understanding of the rights of the child which now includes respecting children's capacity, being listened to and taken seriously, and freedom of conscience, thought, and religion among other things. These recent changes represent the clear recognition that children have and continue to have their intellectual rights impeded upon by current social structures and governing bodies.
3) Children's participation rights promote inclusivity and empowerment within citizenship and democratic processes by encouraging active civic involvement. By disregarding the experiences and opinions of children, we are not fostering the type of environment where they would feel they have the power or ability to make positive changes or real impact within society once they reach the age of adulthood.