Young people in countries throughout the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) find themselves grappling with similar challenges as they push their governments to be more responsive to the needs of citizens. While the COVID-19 pandemic prevents travel across the MENA region, the National Democratic Institute (NDI or the Institute) hosted and broadcasted a virtual tournament in August 2021 that brought together youth from different countries to debate data-driven solutions to transnational public policy problems.

On July 22, the National Democratic Institute (NDI) virtually convened a culminating symposium for the 2020 Political Party Leadership Institute (PPLI) initiative on Lessons on Integrating Youth into Political Parties and Leadership. Funded by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), PPLI seeks to strengthen young people's capacity to meaningfully contribute in party processes and contribute to youth reflective policies across the region.

In April 2021, the National Democratic Institute (NDI) and its partner, the Libyan Debate and Dialogue Association (DDA), organized a National Schools Debate Championship in Tripoli, bringing together students from across the country to compete in debates on the national stage. This event -- the largest yet hosted by DDA -- was a successful opportunity to showcase the broader and ongoing work that DDA and NDI are undertaking in promoting youth engagement and political participation in Libya. 

Despite their large numbers, young Africans are less likely to vote and are often not represented in decision-making or political institutions. Recognizing the critical role political parties play in political processes, NDI launched the Political Party Leadership Institute (PPLI) in 2020 to enhance young people's participation in formal political party processes.

In Malawi, a growing cohort of young people are entering into careers and politics and looking to reshape the future of governance and development. With over 50% of the population under 18 years old, the number of young people joining new initiatives and seeking to make a difference will continue to increase. Yet, there are limited options for young people, even once they are able to join civil society, to be recognized by older generations for their ability to provide meaningful input and given opportunities to develop new skills of engagement.