Youth for power: youth on the ballot

2024 is the biggest election year in history. Nearly half of the world’s adult citizens in Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas will cast ballots this year to choose representatives for various levels of government in what has been dubbed a big year for democracy. On the world’s youngest continent – Africa - almost 20 countries have had/are going to the polls in 2024. In a landmark election that resulted in the ANC losing its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994, youth participation on the ballot was less than impressive. While there was a significant increase in the number of young people fielded as candidates on party lists to the 7th parliament and a more youth-focused drive to civic education efforts, young people continue to "punch below their weight" when it comes to political participation. As a demographic that is disproportionately affected by unemployment, young voters believe their votes will not change their socio-economic conditions. They don’t trust politicians and are suspicious of the ‘empty promises’ made by political parties. Many believe that politics is dirty, unethical, and fueled by money. 

These challenges are not exclusive to SA. Across the world, young people are questioning democracy's ability to deliver tangible results, the viability of established parties as vehicles for channelling aspirations for change, and the extent to which politics is still an effective tool for enacting popular will. 
•    What does the low participation of young people at the polls tell us about democracy? 
•    What are the experiences of young people in space of power?
•    What can we do to increase electoral means of participation among the youth? 
•    How can young people reclaim politics as a tool for effecting change? 
•     What strategies can we use to reclaim democracy as a will of the people? 

Facilitator: Itumeleng Motlhabane 
Panelists:Asanda Bhikitsha/Balungile Madikizela, Nkosikhona Swartbooi, Thabile (OVSA), Luzuko Peter

Date: 19 October 2024
Time:11:30 -15:00
Venue: Miriam Makeba Hall, University of Fort Hare, East London Campus