The inability of Turkey and Istanbul in institutionalisation of children's participation in urban planning: A policy analysis study

Abstract

Children's participation in the decision-making and design of urban public spaces is crucial for achieving inclusive cities. International covenants have recognized the importance of participation as a right. Having adhered to these agreements, Turkey is obliged to enable children's participation in all public matters that concern them, including shaping urban spaces. This paper analyses national and local legislation in Turkey and Istanbul to distil how children's right to participate is legislated and institutionalised. It shows that lack of integrated child-responsive legislation, accounting for children's individuality, and lack of collaboration between national and local governments are the root of the problem.