A Children's Parliament for Children's Day in Bolivia

April 12 was Children's Day in Bolivia - and fitting in with the occasion, 45 children and adolescents took up their elected seats in the national Children's Parliament, which sits as part of the 5th National Congress.

Working with partner organisations, Plan in Bolivia helped facilitate elections in La Paz, Santa Cruz and Tarija departments, where children and adolescents voted for their peers to represent them in the parliament.

Recognising children's ability to think and act for themselves

The elections were the culmination of two years' work in rural communities and schools. National Communications and PR Coordinator Claudia Columba said: "Two years ago, Plan started a novel and effective methodology that allows the children themselves to choose their own representatives. We believe that the children are the protagonists of this process and that means recognising their ability to think, propose and act for themselves.

"This methodology enables children to learn to identify the problems of their districts, their causes and effects as well as solutions.

"The children voted for those candidates who they believed had the most viable proposals."

Among the proposals presented in this year's elections were: sensitising parents, professionals and authorities about child abuse; cutting down on alcohol consumption in minors; and creating playgrounds and sports fields.

What happens next

After the elections, the children and young people will return to their communities where they will work hard to retain their mandate as elected representatives - building up their self-esteem and confidence in the process. Juan Marcos - who acted as deputy in the elections - said: "All boys and girls have the right of free expression and we are happy that now the adults listen to us and give us space."