Lesotho Parliament Hosts 2025 National Children’s Parliament Simulation to Amplify Youth Voices

In a bold step towards inclusive governance, the Lesotho Parliament today hosted the 2025 National Children’s Parliament Simulation Session—an inspiring event designed to empower the country’s youth by giving them a seat at the table in national discourse.

The simulation, held in the Parliament chambers in Maseru, was attended by Her Royal Highness Princess Senate Mohato Seeiso, whose presence added prestige and encouragement to this vital platform where children actively engage in matters that directly impact their lives.

Far more than a ceremonial gathering, this year’s session offered children the opportunity to lead critical discussions on health, safety, education, and the alignment of national budgets with their real needs. Children took centre stage, voicing their concerns, offering recommendations, and challenging leaders to do more in advancing their rights and well-being.

The session attracted participation from Members of Parliament, the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development, and several development partners, including UNICEF and World Vision, who have long supported child-focused initiatives in Lesotho.

“This simulation is not just a symbolic exercise,” said one of the child participants during the session. “It is about holding leaders accountable and ensuring that children’s voices are reflected in real policies and budgets.”

The 2025 simulation also served as a reflective milestone, marking 15 years since the first Children’s Parliament was held in 2010. Stakeholders used the occasion to evaluate progress made over the years and highlight areas needing urgent attention—particularly in education access, adolescent health services, child protection, and gender equality.

Speaking on behalf of the development partners, a UNICEF representative praised Lesotho for maintaining the tradition of child participation in governance and encouraged stronger efforts in implementing child-sensitive budget planning.

The Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development reaffirmed its commitment to integrating children’s priorities into national planning frameworks. “We must do more than listen—we must act,” said a ministry spokesperson during the session.

As Lesotho continues to face socio-economic challenges, events like the National Children’s Parliament Simulation offer a powerful reminder that children are not just beneficiaries of policy—they are key stakeholders in shaping the nation’s future.

By enabling meaningful dialogue between children, lawmakers, and civil society, the simulation marks a critical step toward more responsive, accountable, and inclusive governance in Lesotho.