SADC Parliamentary Forum Constitution Document

SADC Parliamentary Forum Strategic Plan 2011

Young people under 25 make up 43% of the world’s population and in Africa 60% of the population. Some reports indicate that 41% of the population in Africa is under the age of 15 . The education and development of young people has never been more important and social investments in young people will enable the building of strong economic bases, which can reverse intergenerational poverty. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recognizes that the way we engage young people today will determine the prospects for sustainable development and peace. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2250, which advocates for increased inclusion of youths in conflict and post conflict situations, puts youth at the center of processes and policies for peace, security and sustainable development. Although young people are successfully contributing to development, they face disproportionate social, economic and political barriers, which prevent them from realizing their full potential . For young people to successfully act as agents of change, they must be empowered and supported to participate at all levels.

Aspiration six of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s Framework for Development, recognizes the need for development to be people-driven and to harness the potential of women and youth. Article 17 of the African Youth Charter recognizes the important role that youth play in promoting peace and non-violence and stresses the need to strengthen the capacity of young people and youth organisations in conflict prevention, resolution and post-conflict reconstruction.