Citizenship: Childhood and youth citizenship

Abstract

Discourses and theories of citizenship are embedded in notions of rights, competence, agency, autonomy, independence, and participation. Thus, discussion about the citizenship of children and young people raises questions about whether they should or can actively participate as citizens or whether they should be prepared for their role as “future” citizens. There is an associated interest in “child participation” and “youth voice” as mechanisms through which to recognize the contribution that children and young people can make or as means through which to recognize their rights to be heard in matters that affect them. A focus on citizenship also encompasses an interest in equity and in the structural and cultural conditions that establish a hierarchy of who is recognized or can participate in civic life. The use of an equity lens shows that children and young people who are indigenous, have diverse abilities, live in poverty, have a home or community language that is not English, or are under 8 years of age are least likely to be provided with opportunities for civic participation.