Possibilities of local communities in the realization of children’s rights from children’s perspective

Local communities are an important factor in positive development of children and thus in the protection of their rights. In contemporary societies, local communities are increasingly perceived as places for active civil participation that includes active participation of children. Children are recognized as a social group and community resource, as stakeholders who can enhance life of the community through their proposals and initiatives. Therefore, active involvement of children, at least at the consultation level, has become a new practice in many communities. This paper presents a study conducted with children in three cities/municipalities in Croatia. The aim of the study was to investigate how children perceived capacity of communities to meet their needs. A qualitative research was applied. The results showed children to appreciate tidy and nice environment, the sense of security and availability of services in the community. When these elements were not fulfi lled suffi ciently, children were not satisfi ed. Children especially emphasised social aspect of life in their communities, i.e. good relationships and solidarity; in this particular aspect, children believed that their cities and municipalities should have done better. In relation to their own participation in local community, children considered that they were not recognized as important stakeholders and had no infl uence on decision-making. Key words: COMMUNITY NETWORKS; HUMAN RIGHTS

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