Participation
Participation refers to one's involvement in and influence of processes, decisions, and activities. Participation is a right for all and is the basis for working with communities and developing programs. Participation varies according to evolving capacities. All groups including adults, children, youth, persons with disabilities and members of vulnerable groups can participate in different ways from the earliest age. No group of people should be denied opportunities for participation because they are hard to reach or difficult to work with. Participation is voluntary. People are invited and encouraged to participate, not coerced, or manipulated. Participation may include a range of activities and approaches. Passive roles include using services, contributing material resources, accepting decisions made by others, and being consulted in a minimal way. Examples of active participation include contributing time, being involved directly in decision-making, and planning and implementing education activities.