Investigation uncovers new insights Research provides fresh perspectives Delving into the subject yields enlightening discoveries - Urgent action required for children's rights in Saxony
In the region of Saxony, a recent study reveals that the rights of youngsters are often disregarded, they are not adequately informed, and their opinions are not consistently considered. This finding is shared by Social Minister Petra Köpping (SPD) during a presentation held in Dresden on Thursday. This study is crucial because it provides data that will further instigate the debate on the matter. Although children's rights exist in several areas, there is still a "call for action."
Reports from the Ministry indicate that 79 children aged between 8 and 17 underwent a personal interview between April 2023 and April 2024, while 333 young individuals and 404 adults partook in an online survey. Forty-four percent of the interviewed youngsters were able to identify specific children's rights, whereas another 34% had at least heard the term. This lack of knowledge was not limited to youngsters but was also prevalent among adults.
The study found that over two-fifths of the young respondents (20% or more) claimed they were seldom or never asked for their opinion. Furthermore, more than half (53%) of the children and youths revealed that adults had previously made choices significant to them without consulting them. A similar proportion, 48%, struggled to comprehend crucial aspects of their lives, and 44% often failed to elicit any response to their complaints.
About three-quarters of the participants declared that they've been exposed to some form of discrimination at least once in their lives, which could be due to their physical appearance, gender, housing situation, or sexual orientation.
The report serves as a snapshot of the current situation and a call-to-action "for all." According to Susann Rüthrich, the Children's and Youth Commissioner of the state government, "It's mind-boggling how often they are dismissed or overlooked in many areas by the adult world. This study constitutes a plea - from the children and young people. It's everybody's responsibility to respect their rights and implement them appropriately."
