Rotterdam has had a childrens ombudsman for 10 years, but according to Stans Goudsmit, knowledge about childrens rights is still insufficient. She is committed to improving this knowledge in the region.
Goudsmit ensures that municipalities in the Rijnmond region adhere to childrens rights. She handles complaints from residents about municipal services and organizations such as Enver for youth care. Link opens an external page and Trevvel for student transport. Link opens an external page.
Childrens Rights
Goudsmit uses the Childrens Rights Convention to ensure municipalities adhere to childrens rights. She notices that knowledge about childrens rights is often lacking among professionals, children, and parents.
The government must also pay more attention to childrens rights to make the right decisions. Therefore, the ombudsman addresses municipalities about their responsibilities.
Growing Confidence
Through school lessons, Goudsmit highlights childrens rights. Children learn about their rights, which increases their confidence.
In the Classroom
In schools, Goudsmit discusses childrens rights. She observes that discussing these topics in the classroom leads to valuable conversations, making children aware of their rights.
In the Heart
More knowledge of childrens rights boosts childrens confidence. Goudsmit encourages children to speak up in official places like the municipality.
Home Sitters to Participation
For 2025, Goudsmit focuses on four key issues: home sitters, children with disabilities, participation, and the children affected by the benefits scandal.
‘We recently published a report on home sitters. It is important that recommendations are followed. We also look at the actions of municipalities regarding children with disabilities.’
‘The Climate Citizens Assembly is a poor example of participation because only those over 16 can participate. Recognition of the affected children from the benefits scandal remains on the agenda.’
More Information
For more information about the childrens ombudsman and what they can do for you, visit the website. Link opens an external page.