The process of devolution in Northern Ireland, though often turbulent, has produced some very positive outcomes.

Before devolution there was little opportunity for people to participate in the decision-making processes. Recently, despite the continuing political uncertainty, there have been some very significant developments.

The Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister has been charged by the Assembly with the responsibility of creating and supporting a Children and Young Person’s Advisory Forum. The Forum has a key role in informing the Assembly on the development of policies that have a particular impact on children.

The members of the Forum had been selected to represent the diversity of society in Northern Ireland. They included Bahá'ís, Muslims and Hindus along with the Catholics and Protestants that one would expect in Northern Ireland.

There were also young people from many different racial backgrounds and young people with disabilities. In all, there are sixty youth serving on the Forum, and they have been charged with a great responsibility. Two of the Bahá'í youth have been chosen to sit on the selection panel that will appoint the new Children’s Commissioner in Northern Ireland.

One day following the suspension of the Northern Ireland Assembly, the hushed corridors of Stormont echoed to fresh vibrant melodies when the Youth Forum held its first meeting in the Senate Chamber. The meeting, that lasted a full day, was lively with youth workers supporting the young people to articulate their views.

It is encouraging to see the way in which a society that has such a history of sectarian conflict is making the slow transition to becoming a plural society that values and nurtures diversity. EG