Europe For Real
OK, so human rights are rights that everyone has, such as the right to be safe and the right to say what you think. They are important for all people. A democracy is a way of governing where people like you and me can say what we want and use our rights. In the European Union, there is the European Parliament, and its job is to make sure everyone gets those rights.
And you know what? Now young people as young as 16 can vote for the European Parliament. That's cool, because young people also have things they care about, and they should be able to choose who stands up for those things in politics. Politics is about everything that happens in our lives, big and small.
So, it is important for young people to be involved in what happens in the world, in politics and in those human rights. When young people participate in making decisions, they see how it affects their lives and their freedom. And voting is the best way to get involved. Every vote counts!
What do these rights mean to you?
Can you just create a fake profile of, say, your teacher?
It is not illegal to create a fake account on social media. Still, you should be careful with this. Read more here!
Can I still say no to my lover when touching, kissing or having sex if I have previously said yes?
Of course, you may still say no, even if you have previously said yes. It is important that you feel comfortable with what is happening. Read more here!
Will you be punished harder if you commit the same criminal offence multiple times?
So, if you commit the same criminal offence multiple times, that is called "repeat" or "recidivism" in the law. But does that also mean you will be punished harder? Read more here!
Can the police just search you?
No, not normally. Everyone has a right to privacy and to bodily integrity. Read more here!
Mag je zelf kiezen welke medische behandelingen je ondergaat?
verschil minderjarigen en meerderjarigen op vlak van consent
Can a minister overturn or change a judge's ruling?
No, a minister cannot just change a judge's ruling. Only another judge can do so, if they think it is necessary. Read more here!
Can you testify anonymously against someone during a trial?
No, you cannot testify anonymously at a trial. Sometimes you can. Read more here!
Can you just post or comment whatever you want online and does that fall under the right to free speech?
Not quite. You are allowed to express your opinion and talk about things you are for or against. That's part of the right to freely express your opinion. But there are rules. Read more here!
Can the police enter your dorm without your permission?
No, not normally. Your home is your place and no one should enter it without your permission. Read more here!
Can your parents just read your messages? Or do you have a right to privacy?
Yes and no. Actually, as a young person, you do have a right to privacy, but that does not mean that your parents should never watch. Read more here!
This initiative is a collaboration with Rule of Law Day.
