Roundtable on youth participation: a call for inclusion in development and transitional justice processes

With a median age of 17.2 years as of 2023, The Gambia is home to a significant youth population, indicating a predominantly youthful demographic. Given this youthful population and its potential for further growth, active involvement of young people in the current transitional justice process is crucial for ensuring inclusive governance and addressing the unique challenges and aspirations of their demographic.

From 8th to 9th May 2024, we conducted a roundtable engagement on youth participation with duty bearers in the North Bank Region (NBR) of The Gambia. Supported by the UN Secretary General’s Peacebuilding Fund (UN Peacebuilding) through the International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ), this event provided a crucial platform to discuss national, regional, and international frameworks aimed at safeguarding the rights of youth and amplifying their voices in development processes.

The roundtable, which brought together 30 participants, including young people and local government authorities, was a forum for dialogue and collaboration. The discussions delved into various aspects of governance, human rights, and the promotion of the rule of law, with a particular emphasis on empowering young people to actively engage in the post-TRRC (Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission) processes in The Gambia.

One of the highlights of the event was the insightful conversation on ensuring the non-occurrence of human rights violations, especially in the context of the ongoing transitional justice process. Participants underscored the crucial role of youth inclusion in this process, emphasising the importance of their voices and perspectives in shaping a more just and inclusive society.

Reflecting on the discussions, Hon. Alieu Bah, Youth Representative of NBR in the National Parliament, emphasised the need to transcend patriarchal systems to foster inclusive democracy, stating, "Male counterparts are adamant to sustain the patriarchal system. However, we must let go and have women onboard for an inclusive democracy." To support this position, Mr. Alhagie Saho, Vice Chairperson of the Kerewan Area Council highlighted the correlation between good governance, justice, and democracy, with inclusion at the core stating, "good governance promotes justice and enhances democracy."

The roundtable also featured panel sessions on key themes, including the National Youth Policy and strategies for enhancing youth participation in local governance, as well as discussions on transitional justice processes and mechanisms to prevent the recurrence of past human rights abuses in the country.