Children’s rights

The best interests of the child in decisions

Basis for every measure that affects children

When a measure affects children, we assess what is best for the individual child. Children’s views must be gathered and taken into account.

Child impact assessment before decisions

We use child impact assessments to ensure complete decision support. We always ask:

• Are children affected by the decision?
• Are the child’s best interests put first?
• Does the decision promote the child’s development?
• Have children been able to express their views, and were they considered?
• Is there a risk that some children are discriminated against?

How we work in Boden

Overall strategy and network

The municipality has an overall strategy to implement the Convention in all services. A children’s rights network follows implementation and provides support.

Goals of the work

• Increase knowledge of the Convention and how to apply it.
• Ensure children’s participation in decisions that concern them.
• Make the children’s rights perspective clear in all decisions.

Organisation and responsibility

The strategy covers the political organisation, administrations and municipal companies. Each service includes the goals in its plans and reports results in regular follow-up.

Follow-up and development

The strategy is evaluated once per electoral term and revised as needed. The Municipal Executive Office coordinates follow-up with administrations and municipal companies.

Children’s participation and support

Right to be informed and heard

Children must receive information about their rights in a way suited to age and maturity. The municipality must enable children to present their views in matters that affect them.

Accessible communication

Special attention is given to children with disabilities so that their experiences and views are included in decisions.