Article by Youth Government

Many persons believe that youth are leaders of tomorrow, however, they are leaders of today, and it’s unique experiences and different origins that will help shape their political attitudes. Therefore, it is imperative they learn more about politics and get involved to channel their energies for positive change, thus, becoming vanguards for the promotion and protection of democracy.

According to United Nations (UN) youth, the youth folks are up to one-fifth of the population of our world. The facts show that a younger generation engagement is needful for greater democratic governance.

However, a simple but complex question is seldom asked: “Why should the youth participate in politics and what benefits does this participation bring them?”.

From Political Commitment To Civic Engagement

Involving young people in politics leads to a civic engagement that goes beyond political commitment, as it can involve serving the community through participation in health, education and charitable work. Political engagement is indeed a more precise part of civic commitment or contribution and could be uttered via voting, participation in political revelations as well as signing petitions on specific issues.

The inclusion of young people and youth in the political process is not only beneficial in the short term but also provides the basis for strong political engagement in the future. It’s important for them to realize they are the leaders of today and in this sense to have a greater stake in what their future will look like. They can also be a creative force, a dynamic source of innovations, and youth have undoubtedly, throughout history, participated, contributed, and even catalyzed important changes in political systems, power-sharing dynamics and economic opportunities. 

Better Citizens

Youth that are politically involved in their very own local community from the beginning are more probable to become committed voters and citizens truly. To have great and better youth citizenship, politics is indeed one of the greatest tools out there; they are more likely to serve their communities in many areas. 

Also, by applying professional ethics and etiquette, their participation will further encourage and promote meaningful and engaging debating, as youths raise their voices with other youth organizations to foster change and action through representation. 

This level of participation will continue as the youth grow out there, and years of experience will enhance their understanding of how things work in our country.

Break The Usual Status Quo In The Country

In dictatorships, new ideas and the new leadership of the younger generation can help conquer dictatorial practices. Mass protests truly led by these young people could force dictatorial leaders to give up power so that these youth can participate in official and real decision making.

Youth For The Youth

Young people have many problems in the world, but these problems are not heard. Given the fact that young people would understand other young people better, the best way to improve this new generation would be the policy that is a tool to take development action.

Young People Can Influence The Election Result

Young people have the potential to influence the outcome of the elections significantly. Strategies that promote their participation can increase their influence. Young people should be consulted in the development of party platforms, and politicians could be advised by these youths on strategies to reach their huge colleagues.

Youth councils for political candidates would also help to make campaigns more attractive to young people.

Conclusion

There are many ways to bring youth or maybe young people closer to the political environment. By participating in advisory boards or local youth councils, young people can meet with local politicians, ambassadors and possibly attend city council meetings. Therefore by witnessing and being apart of these events, young persons will gain first hand governance & international relations. The youth then gets a first glimpse of how decisions are made in local government, which is useful to them, as they can see how those decisions have a direct impact on their lives. More so, it gives them a platform to continue lobbying for youth advocacy and championing for the inclusion of youths in all levels of the professional and social spheres.

CREDITS: Youth Government TT

Published Sep 14, 2019