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
Despite Ghana’s strong democratic history, youth participation in political activities remains low. Many young people lack access to the tools, knowledge, and understanding needed to effectively engage in policy dialogue, activism, campaigns, and voting. Youth Leadership Parliament seeks to address these barriers by providing training, education, and innovative approaches to increase political engagement among the youth.
Project Overview
The project “Empowering the Future Through Digital Innovation” aims to actively engage young Ghanaians aged 18 to 30 and bridge the gap between them and the government. This specific group faces distinct challenges in participating in civic activities, including difficulties in obtaining information on voting procedures, a lack of understanding of their civic duties, and feelings of powerlessness in the political arena. To address these challenges, the project will provide a user-friendly app tailored to the preferences and tech skills of youth. The app’s main functions include:
- Serves as an online resource centre for youth
- Features an open database with essential information on: electoral rules, political participation, legislation, candidate profiles, and more
- Functions as a knowledge hub
- Works as a targeted training platform to develop skills: policy analysis, public speaking, debate coaching, community and campaign management, and advocacy
- Utilises data analytics
The app is designed to empower young people by serving as an online resource centre, featuring an open database and knowledge hub filled with essential information on electoral rules, participation, legislation, campaign contributions, candidate profiles, and relevant laws.
Expected Outcomes
With the aim of reaching 5000 youth, the project will engage key stakeholders in the electoral process, including civil society groups, election monitors, electoral staff, and the wider public. Additionally, through outreach programs, awareness campaigns, and capacity-building initiatives, the project will empower these stakeholders to actively promote transparent, free, and fair elections.
More About the Organisation
Youth Leadership Parliament is a civil society organisation focused on empowering aspiring young leaders through a Simulation Parliament and Model Government. By providing training, mentorship, and essential skills, the organisation equips future Presidents, Ministers, Diplomats, and Parliament Members to participate in democratic governance. Their advocacy efforts aim to engage governments on political, economic, and community issues impacting youth.
Learn more about the Youth Leadership Parliament: https://ylpghana.com/
