The project
SOCRATES is a European project that focuses on strengthening children’s participation in civic and community life. Although children have the right to express their views on matters that affect them, opportunities to do so in a meaningful and structured way are still limited. Too often, participation is informal, one-off or disconnected from real decision-making.
Impact
SOCRATES is expected to have a lasting impact on the way child participation is approached at local level. By providing a clear and practical framework through the SOCRATES Compass Mechanism, the project supports a shift away from occasional or symbolic involvement of children towards participation that is structured, consistent and meaningful. Children who take part are given space to express their views on issues that affect them and to experience participation as a process that leads to reflection, dialogue and follow-up, rather than a one-off activity.
