This dissertation explores the perception of youth about their participation on the Federal Government Project known as PROJOVEM. The research took place in six different establishments where the project was implemented in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The main focus is on the right to participation for youth guaranteed in the Brazilian Constitution of 1988, in the National Statute for Children and Youth created in 1990 and also by the Youth Statute from 2004. The analyses of youth participation and their rights have a particular importance considering the number of youth in Brazil living in vulnerable situations. The research has demonstrated that the youth interviewed perceives PROJOVEM as a right but at the same time as a favor. Even though they recognize that this federal project offer alternatives in general they feel that it won´t change their life conditions. The youth demonstrated to have a good understanding of their rights and responsibilities.