Acting democratically: Children’s rights and participation in decision-making in schools

Child participation as part of EU values

Children's right to be heard and participate in decisions ranging from home and community issues to school and legal matters is fundamental. However, an EU-wide study found limited opportunities for children to participate in political and democratic EU life.

Mechanisms such as children’s and youth councils/parliaments and ombudspersons for children already exist, but there is a need for more child-led initiatives and better training for adults to support them.

To help this process, the European Network of Youth Advisors (ENYA) has developed recommendations on child participation, including a specific section concerning the rights of the LGBTI+ community. 

‘Sometimes participation is as simple as just asking children what they think. It doesn’t always have to be very complicated’ (ENYA)

From active pupils to active citizens

Schools can offer children early democratic experiences, both taught and practical. Schools can start by creating spaces for participation, e.g. elected pupil councils or increasing pupils’ sense of responsibility and ownership through organising activities. 

Embedding democratic values in teaching and school life

The Student Voice project (Erasmus+) empowered pupils to meaningfully participate in improving their school experience in order to enhance their engagement in learning and to strengthen teacher-pupil relationships. Discover the project’s versatile resources here.

The Promoting Democracy in Schools guidelines offer activities and lesson plans from primary to lower secondary level in English, Spanish and Portuguese. A related online course is also available.