What are the Committees and the Children’s Parliament?

In adopting the International Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has recognized children as the bearers of social, economic, civil, cultural and political rights, as adults. All children can say what they think, get information and get together. In order for them to be able to engage formally in the decisions that concern them, a process of setting up Committees at all levels and a national Parliament  have been put in place across the country.

« Their mission is to make effective the participation of children in the initiatives of the national community » (Article 83 of Law No. 09/001 on the protection of children)

Parliament and Children’s Committees enable children to participate in decision-making on national issues that affect them. They are platforms for expressing children’s views on issues discussed by national public authorities. The latter collect the children’s point of view when they examine an issue relating to their rights and duties.

How are they organized?

The organization and functioning of Parliament and Children’s Committees are provided for in the Interministerial Order signed on March 7, 2018.

UNICEF is supporting the Government of the DRC in setting up the Committees to lead to the formation of a National Children’s Parliament. Based in Kinshasa, the Children’s Parliament is sponsored by national deputies.