It is important to understand that together we are all responsible for educating and fostering citizenship education. In order to build democratic societies based on active citizen participation, it is crucial to consider these challenges. But how are these ideas reflected in political strategies, human and economic resources, and municipal practices if we are unaware of them? This question is fundamental.
As of today, childhood participation does not occur naturally; it is not yet inherent, even after more than forty years of democratic municipalities. It is still uncommon in many parts of our country to encourage, promote, and give importance to the contributions and actions of boys and girls in local decisions. Therefore, the technical staff of different areas of a local administration, understanding the vital importance of this issue, is tasked with political education. Sensitizing and convincing elected officials and other professionals are often the first steps in this process. At IMCITIZEN, we aim to support professionals and politicians dedicated to "including children in municipal decision-making."
How could we move forward on this issue? What could we do to provide an innovative collective response?
Héctor, you share quite an invitation for reflection.
Although it sounds like a mantra, I would say that two words are key: culture and education. cultura y educación.
Culture, because we need a new perspective to understand that children's and adolescents' participation goes beyond consultation or giving them a voice. It is CITIZEN PARTICIPATION, in capital letters. It is taking part in society as full members and active, capable, competent and transformative citizens.
Education, because children's and adolescents' participation should be a substantial part of any socio-educational practice from early childhood. And education because if adults do not educate/train ourselves in the rights and citizenship of children and adolescents, we will be an obstacle to progress in this direction instead of being allies.
And projects like IMCITIZEN are indeed drivers of change and innovation!