Children deserve to be heard, seen, treated, and represented with dignity and care. However, they are spoken about rather than spoken to, leaving the stories that directly impact their lives unheard.
The Citizen missed an opportunity[1] to access children in a story that involves an issue that may affect their livelihoods.
The article, “Allowed only marry at 21? Home Affairs marriage bill sparks fierce debate” (09/04/2025). The article talks about how South African psychology experts and community members weighed in on South Africa’s proposed Marriage Bill, especially on its outline for the appropriate age to get married.
Early marriage can limit opportunities for self-discovery and independence, and children do not have the emotional maturity to handle the responsibilities and challenges of marriage. As much as the article covered this pressing issue, but it is important that we get perspectives from children who are in these situations and live under these environments. This well help raise awareness on the children’s best interests.
While the piece commendably sheds light on the issue and underscores the responsibility of adults in addressing child marriage, it regrettably overlooks the most vital perspective—that of the young people themselves. According to UNICEF’s guidelines for journalists reporting on children, media should respect and promote a child’s right to participation by including their voices in matters that directly affect them. Principle No. 4[2] specifically encourages journalists to consider children’s views in line with their age and maturity.
MMA encourages The Citizen to keep on writing stories that spotlight children’s issue and its reporters to prioritise children’s best interests by ensuring that their views are considered in matters that affect them. Incorporating children’s perspectives enhances news stories and contributes towards a just, more democratic society where every voice is acknowledged and respected.
Written by Siphokazi Pikoko
Edited by Ntombifuthi Kubeka
[1] A missed opportunity are stories that would have made great stories had all elements of ethical reporting and/or best journalism practice been adhered to e.g accessing children under ethical cases & child participation
[2] https://www.unicef.org/eca/media/ethical-guidelines#:~:text=Respect%20the%20dignity%20and%20rights,protected%20from%20harm%20and%20retribution.