Jávea is a child friendly community
UNICEF award town's commitment to the young
POLICIES designed to involve youngsters in the daily life of the community has won Jávea an award as a certified UNICEF Child Friendly City.
The accolade is given to cities, towns or communities showing a commitment to improving the lives of children; understanding their rights to be involved as an “integral part” of public policy, programmes and decision making.
The UN scheme was launched in 1996, an initiative designed to make local communities a liveable place for all, underlining that “the wellbeing of children is the ultimate indicator of a healthy habitat, a democratic society and of good governance”.
Jávea applied for the UNICEF status in December last year and was inspected by referees visiting the Marina Alta town to assess it commitment and meeting requirement such as the promotion of child participation, the creation of plans incorporating young people, and promoting policies to benefit children.
Announcing the award, Councillor Montse Villaverde explained Jávea had sought to include children in various initiatives since 2011; these include a Children’s Council, involving children in municipal life, drawing up strategic plans for the youngest members of the population and even the ‘pas a pas’ walking bus scheme.
She said winning the award illustrated that “Jávea sees children not only as citizens of the future but also the present and should be included in the development of the town.”
The certificate will be officially awarded in a ceremony on November 27.