Child citizenship and participation: Bottom-up level change from professional conversations with children

Marilyn Casley; Jennifer Cartmel; Kerry Smith; Patrick O’Leary; Natalie Reyes Bernard

doi:10.37291/2717638X.202452413

Authors

Marilyn Casley Griffith University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8258-9784
Jennifer Cartmel Griffith University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5345-7851
Kerry Smith Griffith University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0314-1680
Patrick O’Leary Griffith University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6084-3734
Natalie Reyes Bernard Griffith University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9426-5883

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37291/2717638X.202452413

Keywords:

Children’s voices, Children’s participation, Citizenship, Communication

Abstract

Hart's (1992) 'Innocenti Essay on Child Participation' advocated for increased involvement of young people as active participants in societal decision-making. This paper provides a historical overview of active child citizenship initiatives, using applied research insights from 'bottom-up' approaches and conversations with children and professionals. It explores how current practices exemplified through three case studies can enhance genuine child participation and citizenship. The case study analysis examines the conversational processes involving children in problem-solving and decision-making within their communities. Through these examples, the paper highlights practical strategies for meaningfully engaging children as stakeholders and empowering them as active citizens whose voices substantially influence matters impacting their lives.

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