Youth and Policies: A Voice at the Table

by Imran Bacchus

Young people play a crucial role not just in our societies but in the crafting of policies and frameworks that can better the lives of our nations and peoples. Many times their ideas and thoughts do not get aired by the right channels and their voices often disappear in rooms where they should leave a resounding mark. Young people are more than what we deem them to be, but we do not give them the right attention and exposure to alleviate their interests.

Their engagements and inputs into policies can help change the outlook of some of the challenges that we face in our world today. They are gifted with the abilities to see things differently but for so long have been sidelined. They should be encouraged to speak up instead of being suppressed or having fear of being victimized. Policies in today’s dynamic world and conditions need fresh eyes, minds and perspectives.

Youths should not just have a seat at the table but be allowed to actively participate in decision making processes. They should be consulted with more frequency so that they know that not only are they seen but heard. Their strong capabilities in calling things out should be respected rather than being criticized. Why do we leave our young people out of many important initiatives yet declare that they are the future?

Their creative art talents and skills can be utilized and leveraged now and not later on important subjects such as climate change, social issues, unemployment, politics, education, humanitarian crises, migration, natural disasters, etc. Their vital roles and intellectual insights can build on the progress made over the years in our systems or can help to redefine the way things should be done.

We should spend more time empowering our youths so that they are confident to take on new challenges. They are quickly changing the trajectory of global development, advocacy and activism. Young people are rising up in every state and territory in large numbers and strength to confront governments, organisations, businesses, and systems that impede on the things they stand against or where corruption and unfair practices exist. Their strong network of level and influence make them a force to be reckoned with.

Therefore, from the halls of our schools to the seats of our parliaments, youths should be able to take up leadership roles that can foster their growth and development. We set the pace for generations to come when we welcome young people into offices, chambers and spaces where they are able to express themselves without any barriers and not limited by age or race.

Truly, policies can only be impactful when we create an enabling environment for our youths to expand their intellectual capabilities. Besides, the exceptional qualities that our young people hold make it necessary to have them where policies are being developed and formulated. In this day and age, young people should not be at the backseat but at the podiums administering their thoughts and providing advice.