My PhD research is examining whether it is necessary to incorporate childhood participation in public policy making in Chile and the possible consequences of this aim for childhood, policymaking and social programmes in which they are part. Reflection regards the barriers and proposals to promote children’s participation in the policymaking would enlighten what type of childhood participation should be promoted through a system which guarantees the protection of children's rights in Chile.
In my master’s thesis, I identified the need for a relational change in Chilean public schools. However, the promotion of this change transcends the student space since childhood would develop in contexts where violent dynamics are reproduced and promoted. During my work experience in different Ministries in my country I witnessed and experienced the shortcomings of the system dealing with the problems of childhood in Chile. There has been a lack of holistic comprehension and approach to the childhood dimension in different social public programmes. I wanted to implement my research to contribute to the promotion of meaningful children’s participation in the initiatives in which they are involved, especially in the policymaking process.