Youth bulge and their role in democracy

@Educastic.CSS
Domestic Issues

Topic 8: Youth bulge and their role in democracy

Basic Knowledge of Topic:

Youth bulge and their role in democracy:
The concept of a "youth bulge" refers to a significant increase in the
proportion of young people within a population. In the context of
democracy in Pakistan, the youth bulge has important implications for the
country's political landscape and the role of young people in shaping
democratic processes. Pakistan is considered to be the fifth-largest young
country in the world. Around 64 percent population of the country
comprises youth aged between 15 and 33 according to report published by
UNDP.

Key concepts:
Here are the basic concepts related to the youth bulge and their role in
democracy in Pakistan:
a) Youth as a Demographic Force:
Pakistan has a large population of young people, with a significant
portion falling within the age group of 15-33 years. This demographic
trend creates a "youth bulge" where young people constitute a
substantial proportion of the population. This youth bulge presents both
opportunities and challenges for democracy in Pakistan.
b) Political Engagement:
The youth bulge in Pakistan highlights the potential for young people to
actively participate in the democratic process. Youth can engage in
 various forms of political activism, such as joining political parties,
participating in social movements, advocating for their rights, and voting
in elections. Their active involvement can contribute to a more vibrant
and inclusive democracy.
c) Political Awareness and Consciousness:
The youth bulge also emphasizes the importance of political awareness
and consciousness among young people. Educated and politically
aware youth can play a critical role in promoting democratic values,
demanding accountability from political leaders, and advocating for their
rights and interests. Their engagement can contribute to a more
informed and responsible citizenry.
d) Agents of Change:
The youth bulge in Pakistan presents an opportunity for young people to
become agents of change in society. With fresh perspectives, innovative
ideas, and a desire for a better future, young individuals can challenge
traditional power structures, drive social and political reforms, and bring
about positive transformations in governance and democratic processes.
e) Policy Implications:
Recognizing the significance of the youth bulge, policymakers and political
leaders should prioritize the inclusion and empowerment of young people
in decision-making processes. It is crucial to provide avenues for youth
participation, such as youth forums, platforms for dialogue, and
opportunities for leadership development. By addressing the concerns and
aspirations of young people, policymakers can ensure that the youth bulge
becomes a driving force for democratic progress.
@Educastic.CSS
Domestic Issues

Topic 8: Youth bulge and their role in democracy

Books References:
Here are five book references related to the youth bulge and their role in
democracy in Pakistan:
1. "Youth and Democracy in the Global South: Exploring
Resistance, Redefinition, and Reconstruction" edited by Erik S.
Wise and Edward M. Brooks.
This book examines the role of youth in democracy across various
countries, including Pakistan. It explores youth activism, political
engagement, and the potential for transformative change.
2. "Youth and Political Participation in Europe: Results of the
Comparative Study 'Civic and Political Participation of Youth in
Europe'" by Bettina Rulofs and Peter Nieuwenstein.
Although focused on Europe, this study provides valuable insights into the
political participation of young people and the challenges they face. It
offers comparative perspectives that can be relevant to understanding
youth and democracy in Pakistan.
3. "Democracy's Children: Intellectuals and the Rise of Cultural
Politics" by John McGowan.
This book delves into the role of intellectuals and young activists in shaping
democratic processes. While not specifically focused on Pakistan, it offers
theoretical insights and case studies that can inform discussions on youth
and democracy.
4. "Youth, Citizenship, and Political Participation: Competencies
and Attitudes towards Politics in Western Europe" by Melanie
Crofts.
Although centered on Western Europe, this book explores the attitudes,
competencies, and political participation of young people. It can provide
comparative perspectives and insights into the potential roles and
challenges faced by youth in democratic processes.
5. "The Power of Youth: Youth and Community-led Development"
by Camilla Gordon, Sonja Sjöstrand, and Daniel Hyslop.
This book discusses the transformative power of youth engagement in
community development. While not specific to Pakistan, it highlights the
potential for youth-led initiatives and their impact on democracy and
governance.
@Educastic.CSS
Domestic Issues

Topic 8: Youth bulge and their role in democracy

Crux of Newspaper Article

1.DAWN
Unpacking the youth bulge by Arifa Noor
 Based on ECP figures, 45 per cent of the voters in the 2023 election
would be under the age of 35. Of these, the report said, around 26pc
will be between 26 to 35 years while around 20pc will be between 18
and 25.
 There have been many reports, based on similar ECP figures, about
the absence of the interest of the youth in the electoral process and
their low participation rates.
2.Tribune
Youth bulge in Pakistan: bane or boon? by Ahsan Kamray
 Statistics provide a grim tell-all tale of how this youth bulge comes
with a downside in a country like Pakistan where youth unemployment
rate stood at 8.5% - one of the highest in the region.
  With the lowest female labour force participation rates (LFPR) in
South Asia across all age groups, Pakistan is presented with the
daunting task to generate additional 1.3 million jobs each year for the
next five years to fill this gap.

3. Pakistan Observer
Youth bulge: Demographic dividend or disaster? By Hamza
Latif, Momina Talib
 According to the Pakistan Youth Development Index 2021, out of the
5 domains of factors affecting young people, civic and political
participation is the domain performing the worst.

 Since the 18th Amendment, youth affairs have become the

responsibility of the provinces, though how seriously they have been
taken can be seen in how outdated these policies are: Punjab’s last
youth policy was put forward in 2012, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s in 2016,
and Sindh’s in 2018, while the Balochistan Youth Policy only exists as
a draft since 2015 and is yet to be tabled, 7 years on.

 Many youth representatives in the government do not themselves

count as a member of the youth age bracket at all, and student unions
remain banned even three decades later.
 Political participation in Pakistan is severely lacking at the grassroots
level, and poses a question to whether a country can aim towards true
democracy while much of its population remains unparticipative in its
politics, unaware and kept out of the process of policy making that
affects their life