Children's Day Commissioner advocates for youth involvement in policy making / Fresh resources allocated for youth-led micro-projects
Saxony-Anhalt's Children's and Youth Commissioner Advocates for Youth Involvement in Politics
In a call for stronger emphasis on children and youth interests in political decision-making, Holger Paech, the Children's and Youth Commissioner of Saxony-Anhalt, has emphasized the necessity of youth involvement, rather than viewing it as an option. Honoring the International Children's Day on June 1st, Paech announced his support for a petition "Children's Rights in the Basic Law," initiated by his counterpart from Brandenburg, Katrin Krumrey, and the State Working Group of Children and Youth Commissioners of Brandenburg.
To enhance the participation of young people in societal discussions and raise awareness of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, Paech has established a fund for small projects led by children and youth. Applications for these projects, with funds ranging from 500 to 1,000 euros each, are now being accepted. The fund, amounting to 25,000 euros, aims to empower young individuals to become active participants in democracy and decision-making processes. More information regarding the fund can be found on the Commissioner's website.
Paech asserted, "No decision should be made without the inclusion of children and youth. Adult politics is misguided if it believes it can purely control youth involvement. The involvement of young people is not an option, but an absolute necessity."
He encourages children and youth to confidently voice their interests and demand genuine participation. Paech stresses the need for meaningful engagement that begins at the local level and continues beyond the state level, even extending to the federal government. With the state election in September 2026 approaching, Paech sees a role for parties within the democratic spectrum to ensure youth involvement. He commented, "Young people are our future. However, instead of simply stating this, they should be actively involved in shaping their own future."
Source: Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs, Health, and Equality on May 28, 2025
In line with Holger Paech's emphasis on youth involvement, advocating for children and youth to have a say in political matters, it is crucial that young individuals also focus on their health, education, and self-development through learning, as active participation in democracy requires a well-rounded and informed citizenry.
Furthermore, by empowering children and youth through small projects funded by Paech's established fund, which encourages their active participation in decision-making processes, they can better shape their future and demonstrate the importance of their involvement in all aspects of society, including health and education-and-self-development.
