UNICEF: Children and youth at the center of decision-making on issues that affect them in Greece

ATHENS 21 January 2025- The UNICEF Greece Country Office announces the creation of the Organization’s first Child and Youth Advisory Board in the country, strengthening the participation of children and youth in issues that affect their lives.

Children and adolescents aged 14-18 from every corner of the country join the Child and Youth Advisory Board, bringing a variety of voices and experiences to the decision-making table

“Through my participation, I want to fight for the rights of those who do not have the opportunity to do so, and to give a voice to those who are on the margins,” says Dimitra Broussali, 16, from Leros.

The role of the Board is to ensure that UNICEF’s programmes respond to the real needs and priorities of children and young people. With 18 core members and 10 alternates from all regions of Greece, the Advisory Board reflects the diversity of society, including refugee children, Roma and people with disabilities. The group will act as an advisory body, amplifying the voice of children on critical issues and ensuring that their views are taken into account at all levels of the decision-making process.

“The creation of the Children and Young People’s Advisory Board is a milestone for UNICEF in Greece. Through this initiative, we ensure that the voices of children and young people are heard and integrated into decisions that affect their future. It is our duty to provide them with the tools and support they need to become the agents of change they wish to see in the world. Children must be treated as equal partners, not just beneficiaries,” said UNICEF Representative in Greece, Ghassan Khalil.

From addressing climate change to promoting mental health and preventing childhood obesity, the Advisory Board members will advocate for strategic issues, while also acting as ambassadors in their communities.

Children’s participation is enshrined as a fundamental principle in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. UNICEF supports the transition from a passive role to children’s active participation in decision-making, helping them develop skills to contribute meaningfully to social, cultural, economic and political life. The selection of members was made through a rigorous evaluation process by UNICEF, including an open call, interviews and submission of CVs and cover letters.

Τhis initiative was developed in the context of the "National Action Against Childhood Obesity" and the "National Programme for the Promotion of Family and Child Health” implemented by the Ministry of Health in cooperation with UNICEF, in the framework of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan Greece 2.0. with funding from the European Union, Next GenerationEU. 

Meet the members of the Children and Youth Advisory Board, here.