The WYDE Civic Engagement project complements its activities at global and regional levels with ad-hoc country-level support. The overall aim of the Quick-Impact Actions (QIAS) is to provide urgent and strategic support to local actors working on youth political inclusion and participation, always upon request of the relevant EU Delegation.
Based on the specific objectives determined in close cooperation with EUDs, the most appropriate local actor(s) are identified and selected to implement the QIAs. This is done either through a direct technical intervention or an action grant, awarded directly or through a restrictive call for proposals, depending on the urgency of the need, the political calendar, and the potential to generate positive changes in youth participation.)
Background
São Tomé and Príncipe experienced low voter turnout, with many votes cast as invalid. These concerning numbers highlight issues of voter education and engagement, especially among women and youth. As a developing island country with the majority of the population under the age of 25, there is a risk that young people will not have a voice in their future. The serious underrepresentation of women and youth in São Tomé and Príncipe’s democratic processes is a key challenge for the island country, often due to educational and cultural barriers. At the same time, educational institutions and the media do not provide sufficient resources to address the situation. Combined with the limited efforts of the government, this underscores the urgent need for a solution.
Project Overview
The “Democratic Empowerment – Youth Voices” project is an ambitious and necessary initiative promoted by the National Youth Council. This project aims to empower young people, strengthening their participation in democratic processes and political decisions in São Tomé and Príncipe. Through a series of educational, capacity-building, and awareness-raising activities, the project aims to create a more inclusive, equitable, and participatory society.
The project will focus on the following activities:
- Workshops and Seminars: Focused on civil rights, political participation, and leadership, providing a solid foundation for understanding and practicing active citizenship.
- Online Platform: Creation of a digital platform to serve as an information hub, facilitating the exchange of ideas and experiences among participants.
- Awareness Campaign: Promoting conscious voting and civic participation through community events and digital content.
- Advocacy for Youth Inclusion: Holding meetings with political parties to advocate for the inclusion of young people in decision-making positions.
Expected Impact
- Increased democratic participation with greater involvement of young people in electoral processes and political decisions.
- Leadership development through the identification and training of new female and youth leaders.
- Strengthening support networks by creating mutual support networks that facilitate the exchange of knowledge and resources.
- Broad awareness of civil rights and the importance of democratic participation throughout the community.
About National Youth Council CNJ
The National Youth Council is the national youth platform that brings together various youth organizations in São Tomé and Príncipe. It has played a fundamental role in proposing, monitoring, and implementing policies aimed at the emancipation and development of national youth. The council has experience in youth development programs and can provide resources, knowledge, and an established network of young people engaged in civic activities.
