We, as the youth of our societies, have the power to politically engage in events that shape our very futures. The youth face many issues that go unheard. Certain groups such as youth with disabilities, young people from minority groups, young women, and indigenous youth face intersectional discrimination and struggle with voicing their opinions. The best way to improve this would be through politics as politics is a tool to act for development.
The United Nations claims that the global youth population is expected to total 1.20 billion in 2020, 1.29 billion in 2030, and almost 1.34 billion in 2050. With a growing youth population, it is necessary to engage the young generation with current events as that can lead us toward a higher quality of democratic governance!
The COP26 is a great example of how young leaders from across the world are working together to make national climate change pledges but it doesn’t stop there!
YOU can actively take charge of your future starting now, by:
- Joining a youth Parliament
Young people who participate politically in their community from a very young age will be engaged citizens in the long run. The UK Youth Parliament provides opportunities for 11–18-year-olds to use their elected voice to bring about social change through representation and campaigning. They can be found here: https://www.byc.org.uk/uk/uk-youth-parliament/about-us
2. Contacting your local MPs
MPs consider and propose new laws and are a great starting point to contact. You can raise your issue to the MP while they can raise issues that matter to you in the House of Commons. You can find your local MP via the UK Parliament website https://www.parliament.uk/get-involved/contact-an-mp-or-lord/contact-your-mp/
3. Signing a petition about something you really care about
There are many active and open petitions available on the UK Government and Parliament petitions website. If a petition gets 10,000 signatures, the government will respond so every signature counts! https://petition.parliament.uk/
4. Learning about your MPs in your country
MPs are the middle person that connects your issues to our government. Learning about them are crucial as they spend most of their time working in the Houses of Commons. Understanding their values and views are a great way to support or to challenge!
5. Telling your peers and starting a society!
Societies are the best way to find like minded people who have the same interests, similar skills, and similar passions as you! Meeting people through societies or through creating your own is a great way to not only make friends but a great way to network. This can help you elevate your individual voice to make impact! Contact your Student Union and let’s make it happen!
Never give up because a simple act of involvement within any political event is enough for you to contribute to your future and to learn more email us at peace.summit_YSC@humanitarianaffairs.asia.
By Aiyesha Swarnn
