Youth Elections and Democratization: Beyond the National Election

Despite representing the majority of Somalia’s population, youth often find themselves excluded from formal electoral processes. In 2022 and 2023, local civil society organizations in all of Somalia’s federal member states (FMS), including the Benadir region, organized forums focusing on youth, elections, and democratization, with an emphasis on young people’s political participation in subnational elections.

The primary objectives of this initiative were to enhance understanding and improve strategies for increasing youth political participation in Somalia, as well as foster coordination among relevant stakeholders working towards democratization in the country.

These forums consisted of one preparatory day for young women, one preparatory day for both young men and women, and one day of multi-stakeholder dialogue, bringing together youth and decision-makers to discuss methods of increasing youth’s electoral participation.

Many of the participating youth emphasized the challenges faced by young women, as Somalia’s political system is dominated by a political elite primarily composed of male elders who tend to marginalize young people, especially young women from marginalized communities. Additionally, participants highlighted that barriers to youth participation in elections can be further exacerbated by factors such as clan affiliation, gender, age, education, and socio-economic background.

The forums were and were facilitated by local organizations, including youth-led organizations, with support from the FBA and the UNFPA.

Watch the film Youth in Elections and Beyond

Filmed during the forums in Somalia, this film summarizes the aspirations and challenge of meaningful youth participation.

Youth in Elections and Beyond on Youtube