BEIRUT: Involving children in the local decision-making process might seem unusual but some municipalities have been working to do just that through an Italian-Lebanese project to inspire young people to become more active in civic life. “The Child Friendly Cities” project was launched in 2011 in collaboration with several municipalities, part of a Social Affairs Ministry initiative. The project is being implemented by the Office of Italian Cooperation for Development in partnership with the ministry.

The main idea underlying the project is the conviction that youngsters should play an active role in their communities. Accordingly, it prescribes the creation of a Children Municipal Council.

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