A children’s right-based approach to involving children in decision-making
Recorded: July 2016
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Contributors
Author: Elizabeth Welty, Laura Lundy
Publisher: Journal of Science Communication
Date: 2013
Geographic Coverage: Worldwide
Type of Resource: Research (Academic)
Sector/setting: Other
Vulnerable groups: Children
Developed with children and young people? Not specified
Type of participation: Other
Availability: Restricted Access
Keywords: Article 12, Audience, Children, Convention on the Rights of the Child, Decision-making, Duties, General Assembly, Influence, Model, Political Agendas, Rights, Space, Student Voice, UN, UNCRC, Views, Voice
Introduction
Children’s issues have become a greater priority on political agendas since the UN General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Each government has agreed to ensure that all those working with and for children understand their duties in relation to upholding children’s rights including the obligation to involve children in decisions that affect them (Article 12). Respecting children’s views is not just a model of good pedagogical practice, but a legally binding obligation. However, there is a limited awareness of Article 12, and how to actualise it. While many people speak about the ‘voice of the child’ or ‘student voice’, these concepts do not capture the full extent of the provision. Lundy (2007) developed a model, which helps duty bearers involve children meaningfully in decision-making. According to this model four separate factors require consideration: Space, Voice, Audience, and Influence. In this paper, we provide an overview of these four factors and a summary of the main implications of the model.