Youth Participation in Decision Making

The term youth participation and youth involvement are often used interchangeably. Youth participation is the active and meaningful involvement of young people in various activities within their communities that have a bearing to their well being. The main aim of this participation is to ensure that they are free to involve themselves in the social and developmental process and that self-involvement is voluntary, active and informed.

Young people can only make safe, informed, and responsible decisions through active participation and empowerment in matters that affect them. Youth organisations are important platforms for developing skills necessary for effective participation in society. The international community has reaffirmed its commitment to youth participation through the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 58/133.