April 22, 2021 - reading time 4 min
In recent years, Amsterdam has further implemented the doughnut economy, conceived by the British economist Kate Raworth, in Amsterdam's policy: a way to develop a prosperous society within the climate's limits. As one of the first cities implementing this idea, it is essential to set a good example: a sustainable, inclusive model to which everyone can contribute. GroenLinks now wants to take this a step further, together with the younger generations, to the children's doughnut.
The rights of the child
In 1995, the Netherlands signed the Convention on the Rights of the Child. With this treaty, they agree with almost all other countries to protect children's fundamental rights across the globe. This agreement gives children the right to participate in and be heard by the government.
Children are often excluded from decisions that affect them most. Younger generations are not listened to enough, which often causes policymakers to forget them in important decisions. Imane Nadif (council member GroenLinks): "Climate change is a good example of this. With these kinds of major issues, it is essential that the government sufficiently involves children in decisions about their future. It's about their future living environment."
Young people have already proven themselves
Moreover, in recent years we have seen that the younger generations are very interested in climate issues. Examples of this are the Young Climate Movement and Youth for Climate. Organizations that lobby and campaign for a better future. They outline scenarios for the future and sustainable lifestyles they envision. This commitment of young people and children could be put to good use in Amsterdam and provide a new, passionate and inclusive insight into the climate problem.
GroenLinks has been advocating for more representation of young people and children in Amsterdam politics for some time now. For example, the party has recently argued for the extension of the right to vote for the district committees to 16 years. A proposal has been submitted to strengthen youth participation in all decision-making. Imane Nadif: "As a politician, we are shaping policy for the coming decades. It is important to include those who will be affected by it. That is our goal: to develop a city for the future, through the future."