Youth in DRG Programs
Module: Political Party Development
Political parties are the primary mechanisms through which citizens access political leadership, and they represent a central avenue through which people engage in the political process and influence policy. Democratic, transparent, inclusive political parties are therefore a vital element of democratic societies in which diverse voices are heard and all people have an opportunity to meaningfully participate in electoral politics. However, while political parties are usually the gateway to political leadership, formal and informal barriers often exclude youth and other marginalized communities from meaningful participation and leadership in parties. When parties fail to include youth and other marginalized groups in their policies and practices, they perpetuate inequality and sacrifice potentially important electoral advantages. When all people are fairly represented within the political party system, it provides a peaceful means to express concerns and preferences through the political process. Important opportunities to foster such inclusion exist within parties’ internal organizational structures, governance structures, and external engagement practices.
Access the full module by downloading the document below:
Explore the toolkit:
What is Positive Youth Development?
What is Inclusive Development?
Models for Integrating Youth
Cross-cutting Considerations
- Civic Participation
- Youth Organizations
- Youth Leadership
- Example Program Types and Theories of Change
Entry Points for Youth Integration into the Program Cycle
Country/Regional Strategic Planning
Project Design and Implementation
Activity Design and Implementation
Monitoring and Evaluation
Guide to Youth in Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance Programs
1. Civil Society
2. Human Rights Protection and Promotion
3. Rule of Law and the Justice Sector
4. Legislative Strengthening
5. Local Governance and Devolution
6. Political Party Development
7. Electoral Processes
8. Anti-Corruption and Accountability
9. Reconciliation, Peacebuilding, and Transitional Justice
10. Media, Information, and Communication Technologies (ICTs)