A debate has erupted in Catalonia over the need to review age thresholds for young people. The local human rights ombudswoman (Síndica de Greuges) has put forward an initiative that could change the usual rules for teenagers. In her view, the current system of age restrictions does not reflect the realities of modern life and is often inconsistent.
Today, teens can face criminal charges at 14, but aren’t allowed to attend concerts on their own. At 16, they can leave school and take a job, but need parental consent to open a bank account or sign a contract. Even in medical matters, minors run into limits: they can make their own treatment decisions but can’t donate blood. According to the ombudswoman, this situation calls for a thorough overhaul.
The first stage of adulthood at 16: what does it mean?
A proposal has been made to introduce the concept of “first adulthood” at age 16. This would allow young people not only to vote in elections, but also to join political parties, manage their finances, sign contracts, and choose educational programs without mandatory adult involvement. Similar changes are already being discussed at the national level, and in several European countries, 16-year-olds have the right to vote.
Changes are also on the horizon in the field of education. The ombudsman proposes extending compulsory education until the age of 18 to reduce the rate of early school leaving. There are also plans to increase the number of daycare spots for the youngest children and to expand access to extracurricular programs for kids from vulnerable families.
Housing and healthcare challenges: children at a disadvantage
The ombudsman’s report highlights that minors not only face discrimination in terms of rights, but also in access to social services. For instance, families with children have to wait longer for social housing than adults without children. The average waiting time for such families exceeds 600 days, compared to around 460 days for others.
Healthcare is another area of concern. Waiting times for pediatric surgeries have risen by almost 5%, and the lines for specialist consultations have grown even more. At the same time, indicators for diagnostic procedures remain high, surpassing the averages seen in other age groups.
Looking ahead: finding a balance between protection and independence
The authors of the initiative emphasize the importance of finding a middle ground between protecting children and recognizing their independence. Today’s teenagers face responsibility and tough decisions much earlier, so legislation needs to reflect these changes. Introducing new age thresholds could be a step toward a fairer, more modern society—one where young people’s rights are respected on par with those of adults.
