Direct Democracy says that children were not directed, pressured or used in a discussion held as part of a social and sporting event. The position was set out in a statement on Tuesday by the party’s spokesperson, Foivos Doukanaris, in response to a letter from the Commissioner for the Protection of Children’s Rights.
In the statement, Direct Democracy Cyprus says it fully respects the institution of the Commissioner and agrees that no child should be manipulated or used as a tool, and that children’s voices belong to the children themselves.
It maintains, however, that the discussion was spontaneous and informal, with the children expressing themselves freely, enthusiastically and with humour, and giving different answers. According to the statement, this can be seen by anyone who watches the entire video.
The statement stresses that, alongside protecting children from any form of manipulation, it is important to safeguard their right to have an opinion and express it freely and spontaneously. It adds that, as the Commissioner also points out in her letter, children have the right to freedom of expression and meaningful participation in social life.
According to the statement, the letter will receive a formal and substantiated response from Direct Democracy Cyprus’ legal adviser, with reference to the facts and the applicable legal framework.
Source: CNA
