Despite these shortcomings which make the findings less generalisable than is desired from such a study, the policy review, consultative meetings and the focus groups with children yielded some valuable and original information that provides a clear snapshot of the levels of knowledge which the nascent democracy of the Maldives possesses of children’s right to participation as enshrined in the UNCRC. Furthermore, it can be seen as providing some clear guidelines for future research into the area of children’s participation, and also as providing insight into where institutions of State and society in general needs to take most urgent actions in order to ensure that Maldivian children are not deprived of the rights they are assured as citizens of a State Party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child. 8