The political participation of children

The concept of children participating in politics as citizens in their own right is rarely considered. Due to the wide acceptance that children can not competently contribute to political life, they have been excluded at all levels of political processes in society. A seminar was convened to assess and challenge these widely held notions about children and politics.
The four papers, read at the seminar make up the bulk of this document. Marta Santos Pais paper gives a description of the almost universally ratified United Nations international human rights treaty - the Conventions on the Rights of the Child - which has provided fresh impetus for rethinking the role of children as valuable citizens. Some aspects of the treaty are regarded in more detail and emphasize issues such as participation as a right not a duty, freedom of expression, and a child's right to information.
Judith Ennews paper discusses how one can define citizenship in childhood, with the key question of 'What does it mean (if it means anything at all) to be a child citizen? Thirdly, Roger Hart argues that we need to give more recognition to the informal community structures and processes that support families and children, and to the many ways in which local government can support communities in creating environments that fulfil children's rights.
The final paper, by Emma Rothschild focuses on the political rights of children in historical perspective. By examining earlier disputes over the extension of political rights to children and other marginalized groups, the author suggests that modern discussions on the rights of children may be illuminated.
The final part of the document brings together all of the papers mentioned above in order to establish critical insights gained and emerging issues. Proposals are put forward as to what participation actually is, what it requires, the nature of political participation and children's role in civil society.