There is extensive legislation that calls for the participation of young people. However the frameworks vary greatly from state to state. Also, the legal texts are frequently open to interpretation. For instance, what exactly does it mean if children and young people are to be involved in all decisions that concern them, in a manner appropriate to their level of maturity? Answering that question is frequently left up to the adults in charge.
In its report to the EU Commission the Federal Government confirms its commitment to greater participation, which it considers a “long-standing tradition” and for which it has developed a “solid legal framework” (BMFSFJ 2006b, 4). Citing low voter turnout and a lack of confidence in parliament, it claims to recognise an “alienation from the established political system” that is impacting negatively on a fundamental willingness to participate. “Efforts to motivate children and young people to engage in political action are evidently not succeeding. In addition, they are still too rarely involved in planning and decisionmaking processes that directly affect them. They are frequently unaware of their rights and opportunities to participate” (BMFSFJ 2006b, 5f.).
- Kategoria:
- Verkkojulkaisu
- Julkaisuvuosi:
- 2010
- Julkaisun numero:
- Nuorisotutkimusseuran verkkojulkaisuja 32
- ISBN:
- 3-933456-44-4 / 978-952-5464-75-7
- Ulkoasu:
- Sivumäärä:
- 89 s.