French rights commission warns of children's invisibility in public spaces, calls for 'child-friendly cities'

France's National Consultative Commission on Human Rights (CNCDH) has raised concerns about the marginalization of children in public spaces, warning of their increasing invisibility. In a report released on July 6, the commission called for a greater focus on young people, advocating for the creation of "child-friendly cities" rather than adult-only zones.

The CNCDH also proposed radical ideas, such as allowing individuals to vote before the age of 18. This suggestion aims to give children a more prominent voice and stake in public life. The commission argues that current urban planning and societal structures often overlook the needs and presence of children, effectively rendering them invisible.

Furthermore, the report denounces what it terms "infantilization," a phenomenon where children are increasingly treated as passive recipients rather than active participants in society. This trend, the CNCDH warns, has gradually taken hold and contributes to the marginalization of youth. The commission's findings highlight a need to re-evaluate how public spaces and policies accommodate and engage with the younger generation.