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
Liberia’s young people, aged 18-35, represent a significant yet underrepresented demographic in the nation’s political landscape, comprising over 60% of the population. Their voices have historically been marginalised in decision-making processes due to factors such as limited access to education and economic opportunities, a legacy of civil war trauma, and skepticism towards traditional political institutions.
Recognising this gap, the Liberia Youth Elections Project emerged as an innovative initiative to bridge the divide between young Liberians and their elected officials. This project aimed to empower young people in Liberia to actively participate in the political process, ensuring their concerns and priorities were heard and addressed by all presidential candidates in the 2023 elections. The project’s multifaceted approach included the establishment of the Inter-Party Youth Council, conducting surveys and focal group discussions to highlight youth concerns, facilitating the signing of the Buutuo Declaration symbolising youth commitment to peace and democracy, and hosting youth town halls with presidential candidates. These efforts fostered inclusive political dialogue and youth empowerment, contributing to a more responsive and inclusive political environment for Liberia’s young population.
Overview project
The Liberia Youth Elections Project, funded by the European Union through the European Partnership for Democracy (EPD), was designed to engage and empower young people in Liberia’s political landscape. Through various initiatives such as the establishment of the Inter-Party Youth Council, conducting surveys and focal group discussions, facilitating the Buutuo Declaration, and hosting youth town halls with presidential candidates, the project aimed to amplify youth voices and promote their active participation in the democratic process. This program not only addressed the historical disenfranchisement of young Liberians but also fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility among the youth for the future direction of their country’s governance.
Activities
- Inter-Party Youth Council: Successfully formed with representatives from 12 major political parties, promoting inclusivity and collaboration.
- Focal Group Discussions and Surveys: Identified key concerns and policy proposals, such as a youth-run Ministry of Youth and increased education investment.
- Youth Elections Situation Room (YESR): Reactivated to monitor and document over 300 incidents related to youth participation, enhancing electoral credibility.
- Post-Elections Youth Peace Town Halls: Engaged over 80 young people, fostering dialogue on election outcomes and future improvements.
- Youth Impact Meter: Introduced to measure the impact of government programs on youth, promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
Impact
The Liberia Youth Elections Project significantly contributed to amplifying youth voices in Liberia’s political landscape. Through the formation of the Inter-Party Youth Council, policy advocacy, and innovative initiatives like the YESR and Youth Impact Meter, young people are better represented, engaged, and empowered. The project’s multifaceted approach has fostered a more inclusive and democratic environment, paving the way for meaningful youth participation in governance.
About Federation Of Liberian Youth
The Federation of Liberian Youth – FLY is the umbrella Organization for all Youth in Liberia. It was estalished in 1978 through an act of National Legislation.
