CRC and Child Participation
Children have the right to freely express their views on all matters and decisions that affect them, and to have those views taken into account at all levels of society. It is the right of every child, without exception.
Child participation requires providing opportunities for them to take part of decisions that affect them; challenging vertical approaches to children; and creating safe spaces for them to express their views. The boxes below explain what the CRC has to say about child participation.
CRC Article 12
Children have the right to give their opinions freely on issues that affect them. Adults should listen and take children seriously.
CRC Article 13
Children have the right to share freely with others what they learn, think and feel, by talking, drawing, writing or in any other way unless it harms other people.
CRC Article 15
Children can join or set up groups or organizations, and they can meet with others, as long as this does not harm other people.
CRC Article 23
Every child with a disability should enjoy the best possible life in society. Governments should remove all obstacles for children with disabilities to become independent and to participate actively in the community.