Події
Children are just like any other residents of cities, just like adults. They also use public spaces, have the need to move around the city, and want to feel safe. Children may not know the word 'energy efficiency,' but they understand that resources are finite, so it's important to turn off the water tap and switch off the lights when not needed. Ukrainian children, some of whom have been forced to leave their homes, while others have experienced blackouts and time in shelters, clearly understand why it's crucial to improve cities: to make them accessible and secure.
In some cities around the world, there is experience in involving children in cooperation with city authorities. For example, in the British city of Leeds, they annually elect a children's mayor for the past 15 years. The children's mayor writes their manifesto, develops an action plan, and implements changes they deem necessary. In Lviv, the Children's Advisory Council has been functioning for the past few years under the Lviv City Council.
Why it is important to involve children in improving the urban environment and how to do it – we asked Irina Ozymok, an expert in local economic development, the founder of the International Mayors Summit (WNISEF), and co-founder of urban clubs for children held this year in Poland. She is also the author of the children's book 'I am in the City,' published by 'Knigolav.