Role of youth in democracy: Change catalysts or passive bystanders?

Since its return to multi-party democracy in 1992, Ghana, often praised as a model of democracy in West Africa, has made great progress in strengthening its democratic system. 

In a sub-region frequently beset by coups and authoritarian leadership, the nation has established a reputation for political stability with five peaceful transitions of power and a thriving civil society.

However, the role of Ghana's youth, who comprise more than 57 per cent of the population, has come under scrutiny as the country's democracy develops.

In a system where older generations dominate, are young Ghanaians actively influencing the democratic system or are they only passive observers?

Youth demographic

The youth of Ghana presents both opportunities and difficulties.

On the one hand, their enthusiasm, inventiveness and technological know-how can spur economic growth, political accountability and innovation. 

However, the majority of the younger generation feel dissatisfied with the political process due to high rates of youth unemployment (12 per cent, according to the Ghana Statistical Service) and inadequate access to high-quality health care and education.

This typically results in voter apathy and hostility. From the fight for independence in the 1950s to the democratic struggle in the 1980s and 1990s, Ghana's youth have also been at the vanguard of the country's democratic experience. 

Political participation

Youth voting in Ghana has been a mixed bag. In certain elections, a large number of young people participated, but in others, there was little enthusiasm.

In the general election of 2020, for example, 79 per cent of voters participated, with young people accounting for the majority of this turnout. 

However, most young people remain doubtful about the effectiveness of their votes.

Beyond voting, young people are becoming more involved in Ghanaian politics.

Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok are being utilised as battlegrounds for debate, protest, and mobilisation. Social media is now a good platform for political activism.

One example of how young Ghanaians are using digital channels to hold their politicians responsible is the #FixTheCountry initiative, which gained widespread attention in 2021. 

Youth in governance

While the youth are becoming more vocal, their representation in formal governance structures remains limited.

The average age of Ghana’s parliamentarians is 53, and youth-led movements and political parties struggle to compete with established parties such as the National Democratic Congress NDC and New Patriotic Party (NPP). This imbalance has sparked calls for greater youth inclusion in decision-making.

Initiatives, such as the National Youth Authority (NYA), the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), and the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) aim to empower young people. Still, critics argue these programmes are underfunded, poorly implemented, and fail to address systemic barriers to youth participation.

Despite these challenges, there have been notable successes.

For Ghana’s democracy to thrive, systemic reforms are needed to lower barriers for young candidates and foster a political culture of inclusivity and accountability. 

While the growing participation of young people is a positive step, sustained efforts are required to ensure their voices are fully integrated into all levels of governance.

Challenges, opportunities

Young Ghanaians suffer numerous obstacles to meaningful political involvement, such as poverty, limited access to education, and systematic corruption, which limit their ability to participate successfully in the democratic process.

Additionally, the politicisation of student organisations such as the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) and the co-optation of young leaders by existing political parties, frequently undermines their independence and legitimacy.

There are reasons to be optimistic.

The rise of digital activism, the growing visibility of young leaders, and the increased recognition of youth issues by policymakers point to the potential for change. 

Civil society and youth-focused organisations along with international partners such as the UNDP and EU, are supporting youth-focused initiatives and capacity-building programmes, offering pathways for greater youth empowerment and participation.

For Ghana’s democracy to thrive, the active participation of its youth is not just desirable—it is essential. Young people bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and a sense of urgency to the table. However, for their potential to be fully realised, systemic barriers must be addressed.

This includes creating more opportunities for youth representation in governance, investing in education and job creation, and fostering a political culture that values inclusivity and accountability.

As the nation reflects on 68 years of independence, the future lies in the hands of its young people.

Their ability to rise above challenges, demand accountability and contribute to nation-building will determine the trajectory of Ghana’s development. 

The writer is a staff of the Information Services Department