Path of Influencing
In Hämeenlinna, the work on child and youth participation is guided by the Path of Influencing.
The goal of the Path of Influencing is to ensure that all children and young people have the opportunity to influence their own lives and their operating environment, providing everyone with opportunities for interaction, discussion and listening, as well as experiences of participation.
The Path of Influencing describes concrete measures for how various actors promote the participation of children and young people in their own operations, in accordance with the strategic programs of the city.
The Path of Influencing is currently being updated. The updated version will be published on this page in early 2027.
Participation of children and young people in documents guiding city operations
The participation of children and young people is considered important in Hämeenlinna. The City Strategy highlights social and cultural sustainability, according to which Hämeenlinna promotes equality, equity, participation and well-being in its operations. The goal is for all residents to have their voices and ideas heard so that participation is realized in areas such as urban planning, residential areas, service development and decision-making.
Participation is also present in the Child-Friendly Hämeenlinna program, in which the well-being of children and young people is examined through five areas of well-being: relationships, safety, health, learning and participation.
Hämeenlinna is also part of the UNICEF Child-Friendly City model. The model is based on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. In a Child-Friendly City, children and young people are involved in planning and developing city services. The key is to ensure the realization of the best interests, equality and participation of the child, while guaranteeing that children have sufficient opportunities for growth and development.