Project

Description

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.

Goal

The project addresses this gap by introducing the SOCRATES Compass Mechanism, a practical participation process designed specifically for children aged 6–12. The Compass supports children in identifying issues that matter to them, developing ideas together, communicating their views to decision-makers and reflecting on what changes as a result. Participation is treated as a cycle, not a single activity, allowing children’s voices to be heard over time.

Framework

SOCRATES is implemented in schools and organisations working with vulnerable children, ensuring that participation is accessible to children with different experiences and support needs. Throughout the project, strong emphasis is placed on safeguarding, inclusion and children’s rights, so that participation takes place in a safe and respectful environment.

Compass Mechanism

By piloting the Compass Mechanism in different countries and contexts, SOCRATES builds practical knowledge on how child participation can work in everyday settings. The project brings together organisations with experience in education, child protection and participation to support more consistent, meaningful and child-centred participation practices across Europe.

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.

Outcome

The project also strengthens the capacity of schools and child-focused organisations to support participation as part of their everyday practice. Educators and facilitators are better equipped to plan and run participation processes that respect children’s rights, prioritise safeguarding and are adapted to different contexts. By piloting the Compass Mechanism in real settings and sharing lessons learned across countries, SOCRATES creates conditions for wider use beyond the project itself. In the longer term, this contributes to more child-responsive local practices and to the sustainable integration of meaningful child participation across Europe.