Children’s Rights – Article 12: A child’s right to have a say on matters that affect them.
Direct Division, why it is important to hear from children?
Aim
The Ombudsman for Children's Office has a statutory obligation to listen to the opinions and experiences of children. Additionally, it is a child’s right to have a say on matters that affect them under Article 12 of the UNCRC. This exercise should emphasise the importance to hear from children who have experience of a situation, as they are experts in their own lives. This activity also aims to raise awareness about the realities of children living in Direct Provision.
Time 30 minutes
Direct Division activity – requires watching the OCO video Direct Division. This topic can be upsetting and could have a direct impact on pupils, who might be or have experience of living or have lived in Direct Provision or who might be connected to someone who has. Acknowledge this with the group and ensure they have a choice about whether or not they wish to do the activity and that there is someone people can speak with if they are upset. Before delivering the workshop, make sure you read this helpful guide on how to handle sensitive topics in the classroom. The discussions you have with your class need to be handled sensitively and with consideration given to participants’ backgrounds and experiences.
Key Date
Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December — the day the United Nations General Assembly adopted, in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
Materials
Read the Report
Children's views and experiences of living in Direct Provision.
Watch the Film
An account of children's experiences of living in Direct Provision.
View the Gallery
Messages to Ireland from children living in Direct Provision.
Instructions
Play the short film, if you have time allow your class to view the art gallery and read the report. Please discuss the issues raised using the following questions as a guide:
· Choose three adjectives to describe your thoughts and feelings, based on what you heard in the film.
· What did you find most surprising about the film? Did you learn anything?
· Why do you think that it is important for the OCO to speak directly to children?
*The short film documentary Direct Division which is 20 mins long has been accepted into The Arts and Human Rights festival with Smashing Times . It will be screened online in Oct 15 – 24th.
