British News Agency

Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten spoke about the participation of the younger generation in local governance and democratic processes during an event held at the theater in Emmen.

Highlighting the importance of the event and the participation of children, Jetten said: “Being at Kindertop in Emmen was incredibly fun and inspiring. Around 150 current and former child mayors and members of children's municipal councils from Emmen gathered here at the theater to look back on the highlights of the past few years.”

Referring to the strategic and social issues raised by the children, Jetten stated: “It was wonderful to see these children dare to make their voices heard on issues that matter to them. They addressed many topics, from the importance of an inclusive playground to an anti-bullying protocol and a plan to make access to e-cigarettes more difficult.”

Emphasizing the role of these ideas in governance, Jetten concluded: “And the beauty of it is that all advice and ideas are incorporated into the decision-making process in Emmen. This is exactly how democracy should work: searching together for solutions that cannot be solved alone. And I am taking all these wise words and valuable recommendations with me to The Hague.”