Shaping a sustainable future
We create sustainable change through youth participation: Young people take responsibility, actively shape their future and strengthen society in the long term.
Youth participation is a central component of the work of terre des hommes schweiz. We are committed to ensuring that young people play an active role in shaping their own future. Involving young people in decision-making processes strengthens their responsibility and promotes their co-determination, which strengthens democracy in the long term.
Young people are the decision-makers of tomorrow. Their voices must be heard in order to shape development effectively and sustainably. Article 12 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child guarantees every child and young person the right to have their say in all matters that affect them. This forms the basis for our work – the active involvement of the target group in all relevant decisions. Participation means more than just having a say. It promotes self-interest and acceptance of development projects, which is crucial for their success and sustainability.
Involving young people in democratic processes is an important step in promoting stable and peaceful societies. Young people who take responsibility and have a say at an early age actively contribute to a democratic and just system as adults. Participation not only strengthens the individual development of young people, but also promotes social cohesion and long-term stability in the communities in which we operate.
In addition to the social benefits, participation also offers direct advantages for the young people themselves. It strengthens self-confidence, promotes identity development and offers them the opportunity to develop important skills such as decision-making, assertiveness and negotiation skills.
At terre des hommes schweiz, we involve young people in project development right from the start – from brainstorming, planning and implementation through to project evaluation. In doing so, we always focus on the needs and resources of the respective young people to ensure appropriate and effective participation.
Our partner organizations around the world are committed to ensuring that young people have a say in all areas of their society – be it at school, in healthcare facilities or in politics. We support them in setting up youth councils, hearings or round tables that serve as a mouthpiece for young people to raise their voices.
We are convinced that youth participation is the key to fair and sustainable development. Support our work and help us to give young people the opportunity to actively shape their future.