Nieuwenkamp, Rebecca (2023) Child-friendly climate governance. Pre-master thesis.
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Abstract
This research examines the representation of children's interests and needs in the development of climate adaptation policies by municipalities in the Netherlands. The central question focuses on understanding the extent to which municipalities recognize children as a separate interest group and the methods that can be employed to enhance child-friendliness: How do municipalities in the Netherlands represent the interests and needs of children in the development of climate adaptation policies, and how can these methods be further developed to improve child-friendliness? The study investigates the alignment between policy and practice of child-friendliness and climate adaptation, the presence of specific targets for improving child-friendliness, the implementation strategies, and the training of policymakers in a rights-based approach. While also capturing the current challenges municipalities in the Netherlands face in incorporating child-friendliness in their policy decision-making process. A total of five municipalities took part in the research. To answer the research question, the study incorporated literature research, policy analysis of municipal documents, and expert interviews to gather data. The interviews were conducted with planning, and potential overlap within municipal organisations. All data was then analysed and compared to draw conclusions. The findings indicate that overall, municipalities lack in recognising children as a distinct interest group in their policies and practices. In most cases there is a disconnect between the intentions proposed in the policies and the implementation in practice. None of the municipalities in the study provided specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound targets for improving child-friendliness. Although elements related to involving children and climate are present, clear strategies and mechanisms for implementing child-friendliness are lacking. policymakers in a rights-based approach to planning for children has not taken place in any municipality. While some municipalities involve external expertise for children's consultation, there is a need to improve the policymakers' own ability to communicate and consult with children. In conclusion, municipalities in the Netherlands are not adequately representing the rights of children, indicating the need for substantial improvements. Raising awareness on child-friendly governance among municipalities through training policymakers, and a multi-level approach is crucial to overcome the challenges faced and achieve a better-coordinated and integrated approach that benefits children. Enhancing awareness and aligning policies with practice can lead to significant advancements in child-friendliness.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Pre-master) |
|---|---|
| Degree programme: | Society, Sustainability and Planning (MSc Socio-spatial Planning) |
| Supervisor: | Rauws, W.S. |
| Date Deposited: | 28 Feb 2024 13:49 |
| Last Modified: | 28 Feb 2024 13:49 |
| URI: | https://frw.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/4429 |
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