Volem Decidir! is a pioneering participatory process that recognizes and upholds the right of children and adolescents in Barcelona to express themselves and engage in collective matters. As part of the 2024 European Capital of Democracy, the initiative aims to open stable and meaningful channels for the participation of young people aged 8 to 17.

Between January and June 2024, over 740 participants followed a five-phase journey: workshops in schools and community centers, district-level “àgores”, feedback sessions, a participatory evaluation, and the creation of a Follow-up Commission for the 2024–2025 school year. This process shed light on what young people care about, how they want to participate, and the issues that matter most to them.

In the first phase, participants explored community, key issues, and participatory proposals through well-designed workshops tailored to diverse settings. In the second, their proposals were shared and prioritized in nine local “àgora” assemblies, ending with an open mic session in public space where children and teens freely voiced their visions for the city.

Their proposals are concrete and achievable: establishing permanent Children and Youth Councils, creating digital tools and social media channels to share and discuss ideas, organizing school-based information sessions, and regular meetings with the mayor.

The process also piloted the Decidim Kids platform and connected with projects like Imcitizen, Teen Citizenship, and the Children’s Agenda, building a strong network of shared knowledge and collaboration.

Volem Decidir! shows that meaningful participation by children and adolescents is not only possible—it’s essential for a more just and democratic city.