Pristina, November 21, 2024 – In honor of the World Day of Children’s Rights, a conference was held for the launch of the “Young Voices” report for the year 2024, which was realized by Save the Children Kosova/o in cooperation with the Ombudsperson’s Institution, which reflects the opinions and attitudes of Kosovar children on various topics.

The “Young Voices” survey presents the feelings and perspectives of 1,071 children across Kosovo on important issues such as security, education, climate change, bullying, mental health, sexual and reproductive health, their participation and other areas that affect them, their rights and well-being.

By focusing on children’s voices, the Young Voices survey serves as a valuable tool that uncovers concerns and proposes solutions by children for children. The results of the survey show that 83% of children expressed a desire for more influence, power and opportunities to express their views on issues that concern them and other young people.

Other findings include: only 9% of children have participated in any public consultation organized by their municipality or government over the past two years; 91% of the children surveyed agree that their municipality should invest more in public spaces for young people and children; and 64% of children would like to participate in public consultations.

The report finds that 29% of children reported that they rarely or never feel safe using public transport at night. This concern affects more girls, where 35% of them express this feeling compared to 19% of boys; 26% of children do not know where to address their depression, sadness; 37% do not know where to go when they or someone they know is exposed to violence, threats or other crimes; 33% do not know where to address unfair treatment; 68% of children believe that children in Kosovo experience discrimination; 86% of children think their schools should do more to support the education of children with disabilities.

Ombudsperson, Mr. Naim Qelaj congratulated the young people for this work and emphasized that the Ombudsperson’s Institution will be served with these data to see how it can be even closer to children and young people.

“The findings of the report emphasize the need we have as an institution to promote the mandate and human rights. Of course, this is done to be as close as possible to you, as close as possible to the citizens,” said Mr. Qelaj.

Article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) emphasizes the right of children to be heard and participate. This article highlights the importance of recognizing children as active participants in their lives and in society. By ensuring that children’s voices are heard, Article 12 fosters a sense of freedom and empowerment, thereby enabling children to contribute to decision-making processes that directly affect their well-being and development.