"The Child's Good Helper" – A guide to the meaning of child participation

Type:Report

Organization:Hope and Homes for Children – Bulgaria

Authors:Hope and Homes for Children – Bulgaria

Year:2021

Summary:Children and young people have opinions that deserve the attention of adults. According to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, ratified by Bulgaria in 1989, children have the right to be active, to express opinions and to participate in issues that affect them. This requires adults to listen to them and value their experiences and perspectives. Children's participation can be consultative, collaborative or child-led. Participation is a fundamental right and a means of realising all other rights of children. Providing information, encouraging them to express their views and putting in place safe reporting mechanisms are key to effective protection. Through participation, children gain knowledge, skills and confidence that support their development and potential.

Purpose:The report informs the general public about the meaning and usefulness of children's participation. The aim of the project and the children's programme presented is to show the importance of the right to have a voice and the importance of supporting children in being able to speak freely.