How a Girl from Central Asia Became a Youth Council Deputy in France

How a Girl from Central Asia Became a Youth Council Deputy in France Article by the Human Rights Platform of the Civic Movement “DAYANÇ” / Turkmenistan A 12-year-old girl named Nestan was elected as a deputy of the Youth Council in the French town of Sommières, which has a population of approximately 15,000 people. Her family lives in France, where children receive education and are actively involved in civic life. The elections were held among students of local schools and colleges. Competing on equal terms with other candidates, Nestan presented her own development program for the town, which received the support of the majority of voters. Despite her young age, Nestan became a full member of the Youth Council under the municipal administration. This is not a school parliament but an official democratic body operating in cooperation with the city authorities. Young deputies work with the mayor’s office and municipal institutions for several years, participate in monthly meetings, and implement projects in the fields of environmental protection, culture, sports, and social initiatives. In France, children’s participation in public life is considered an essential part of democratic education. Youth councils foster civic responsibility, freedom of expression, and practical understanding of how government functions. Children and teenagers aged from 7 to 18 are eligible to participate in these elections. Nestan herself says: “In the future, I want to become a politician because I will be able to solve problems, help people, and develop my country.” Democracy for Children — and the Reality of Turkmenistan The Human Rights Platform of the Civic Movement “DAYANÇ” emphasizes the importance of such examples for Central Asian countries, including Turkmenistan. We firmly believe that children and youth must have the right to vote, participate in public life, propose ideas and projects, and develop civic awareness. This is how democratic societies and responsible futures are built. However, the situation in Turkmenistan remains the opposite. In educational institutions, cases of physical and psychological violence against children are reported. Students are intimidated, their initiative is suppressed, and free thinking is discouraged. Instead of fostering love for their country and respect for human rights, schools systematically promote a cult of personality and loyalty to the ruling Berdimuhamedov clan. This destroys the foundations of civil society and deprives the younger generation of a democratic future. Turkmenistan is still far from democratic standards where children are active participants in public life. The Human Rights Platform of the Civic Movement “DAYANÇ” will continue highlighting such examples to clearly demonstrate what democracy looks like in practice and why the participation of children and youth is an essential part of it. A free society begins with free children.