Environmental Activism and Deliberative Democracy. An Approach from the Children's Capabilitarianism and Childism Perspective

Abstract

This article presents an analysis of environmental activism led by children and adolescents and deliberative democracy. I argue that it is no longer sufficient to merely recognize the importance of the voices of minors; rather, political recognition is necessary. Thus, the transformative nature of deliberative democracy between adults and children and adolescents takes center stage. To comprehend the impact of environmental activism on deliberative democracy, an understanding not only of rights but also of the capabilities and agency of children and adolescents is essential. I propose addressing this issue through the lens of children’s capabilitarianism and childism. The former emphasizes the significance of the capabilities of children and adolescents to actively participate in decision-making processes, while the latter underscores the need to modify the traditional understanding of adult-centric social structures, advocating for an approach that includes the lived experiences of children and adolescents.