Child participation in decision making: implications for education and beyond

OECD analysis of models, benefits, and barriers to authentic child participation in education systems.

This OECD working paper examines the progressive integration of children and youth in decision-making processes across education systems and public spheres in OECD countries. Drawing on extensive literature and policy documents — including the UNCRC, OECD declarations, and participatory initiatives — the report highlights the benefits of youth engagement, such as enhanced well-being, civic skills, social cohesion, and trust in institutions. It analyzes diverse participation models and showcases real-world applications like participatory budgeting in schools, youth voting in elections, and student councils. The study identifies barriers, including tokenism, power imbalances, accessibility issues, and adult skepticism. It offers recommendations to embed child participation through inclusive design, legal frameworks, youth-friendly communication, and education reform — emphasizing the need for authentic, evaluated engagement within formal systems.

Source: OECD
Language: English

Authors: Francesca Gottschalk & Hannah Borhan

Year of publication: 2023