Atacama Region Children’s Advisory Council Launches Participation Initiative

The newly formed Children’s and Adolescents’ Advisory Council of the Atacama Protection Network held its inaugural session in Freirina, Chile. The meeting provided civic education tools, introduced participants to the structure of the national government, and defined priority topics such as education, mental health, safety, and citizen participation. The council, elected by their peers, outlined its operational procedures and how it will channel youth concerns to regional authorities.

César Guzmán, regional director of the Specialized Protection Service for Children and Adolescents, highlighted the importance of these spaces for strengthening civic participation and ensuring that young people's opinions are considered in public decision‑making.