Participation and Safety: Youth Policy in Reinickendorf in April 2026

Safety in Youth Leisure Facilities: Mandatory Reporting Obligations and Protection Concepts

In April 2026, Reinickendorf intensively addressed safety in youth leisure facilities. The focus was on mandatory reporting obligations in cases of suspected serious crimes, protection concepts against sexualized violence, and staff training.

Document 3111/XXI required youth leisure facilities to file criminal complaints in mandatory cases of suspected crimes. In addition, mandatory intervention plans were demanded that would immediately inform the police if necessary. These measures aim to ensure victim protection and exclude alleged perpetrators from the facilities.

Another focal point was the review of existing protection concepts in open youth work. Staff in youth leisure facilities are to be trained in areas such as legal reporting obligations, victim protection, evidence preservation, and cooperation with authorities. Disciplinary measures or financial penalties are threatened in cases of violations or cover-up attempts.

These regulations aim to secure youth spaces as safe environments while ensuring equal treatment, regardless of origin, religion, or cultural background.

Participation of Children and Young People: Legal Rights and Political Reality

Another focus of the April discussions was the participation of children and young people in municipal politics. Although the Youth Parliament (KJP) in Reinickendorf has no binding rights, it was highlighted in several documents and debates as a central actor in implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).

Article 12 of the CRC requires that children and young people be involved in decision-making processes. In Reinickendorf, it is being discussed whether the KJP could be granted the right to speak or propose motions in the District Committee (BVV). Although the District Office has so far denied this, it is argued that an initiative right for the KJP would be in line with international law and serve the principle of the best interests of the child (Article 3 CRC).

A statement by Prof. Dr. jur. Philipp B. Donath emphasized that an initiative right is not a legislative proposal right, but a municipal participation instrument. The BVV could discuss motions from the KJP, but is not required to adopt them.

The goal is to create structural participation forms that comply with the CRC guidelines. Examples from other federal states, such as Hesse (Section 4c HGO), show that it is possible to integrate participation rights into municipal structures.

Youth Welfare Committee: Platform for Innovation and Participation

The Youth Welfare Committee of the Reinickendorf District Committee met on April 22, 2026, under the motto "Presentation of the Children's and Youth Theater and New Paths with the Evangelical Church."

The aim was to present cultural and educational projects that strengthen young people in the region. Cooperation with church institutions is seen as a meaningful approach for long-term youth promotion.

In addition, the right to participate of the KJP was discussed. The committee called on the District Office to implement participation opportunities for the KJP in a timely manner – with the involvement of the Youth Welfare Committee.

Outlook: Need for Reform and Future Perspectives

The current debates show that Reinickendorf is consciously addressing the future of youth policy. Safety in youth leisure facilities remains a central issue that will continue to be a priority beyond the year 2026.

There is also a need for reform in the participation of children and young people. A legal regulation – either through the amendment of the District Administration Act (BezVG) or through a separate Berlin Youth Participation Act (BerlKJBG) – is considered necessary to create legal certainty and fulfill international obligations.

Overall, there is a trend toward greater inclusion of young people in political processes – a process that has just begun in Reinickendorf.