An assessment of youth participation in federal structures

Youth representation in local, provincial, and federal governments has seen significant growth. According to the 2079 Election Commission report, 11 percent of federal representatives, 20 percent of provincial representatives, and 41.14 percent of local representatives are youth. 

These findings indicate that young people’s access to and participation in government policymaking has considerably expanded. Local governments have introduced programs aimed at building professional skills and facilitating employment for young people. However, concerns about inadequate funding persist. Experts suggest that consolidating youth development funding under a single ministry could enhance the effectiveness of these programs through integrated implementation.

Youth-centric policies and plans, such as the 10-year strategic plan Youth Vision 2025 and the National Youth Policy 2072, have been implemented to support youth development. The National Youth Policy 2066 highlights young people as agents of social, political, economic, and cultural transformation. It recognizes their creativity, bravery, and self-confidence as critical assets for nation-building. Census data from 2078 indicates that individuals aged 16 to 40 comprise 42.56 percent of Nepal’s population, emphasizing the demographic's significance.

The National Youth Policy 2072, amended from its earlier version, defines youth as Nepali nationals aged 16 to 40. The Ministry of Youth and Sports, established in 2065, was created to address the concerns and problems of the youth population. The National Youth Council, as the primary body, oversees youth policies and implements programs aimed at achieving the objectives of the National Youth Policy 2066. Particular priority groups under this policy include youth from Karnali and other underprivileged areas, the Muslim community, the disabled, marginalized, endangered, minority, and those who are affected by conflict.

Despite these efforts, Nepali youth face numerous challenges, including migration, poor health and nutrition, inadequate access to professional skills, unemployment, and unequal opportunities based on gender, region, or ethnicity. The policy also identifies the impact of globalization and liberalization as a concern, while recognizing opportunities such as abundant natural resources, growing financial networks, and expanding vocational education programs. It takes into account the possibility of applying the knowledge, skills, and resources acquired from overseas jobs in the productive sector to generate jobs within the country.

Participatory policies and programs addressing youth issues are more critical than ever. Events such as the armed conflict of 2062/63, the Madhes and Tharuhat movements, and struggles against caste and gender discrimination have shaped the current generation of youth. These historical contributions must be acknowledged, particularly the role youth played in establishing Nepal as a federal democratic republic. Special attention should be given to youth from backward regions like Karnali and marginalized communities.

To institutionalize Nepal’s federal democratic republic, the state must adopt strategies that promote inclusive and proportional development, safeguard sovereignty, and harness youth leadership for political, economic, social, and cultural transformation. Youth must actively participate in all aspects of state management and play a leading role in nation-building.

Sports are another avenue for youth development, fostering discipline, unity, and national pride. However, the government has failed to establish a robust organizational framework for youth sports that aligns with international standards. There is also a lack of coordination among public, private, and non-governmental sectors in promoting sports as an integral part of life. Addressing these gaps could enhance the sector's growth and impact.

The National Youth Council has implemented initiatives like Youth-Friendly Local Governance in all 77 municipalities of each district, enabling greater youth access to local policymaking and development plans. Key programs such as the Youth Vision 2025, 10-Year Strategic Plan, and National Youth Policy 2072 are gaining traction. A notable initiative involves allocating 10 percent of local government budgets to youth-focused programs by 2025.

Youth parliaments have been established to promote leadership and familiarize young people with legislative processes, governance, and constitutional values. These programs, running for three years, have encouraged youth engagement at the local level. However, many young people remain unaware of how to participate in local planning, initiatives, or policymaking.

To address this gap, local governments can establish youth forums within municipalities, providing a platform for young people to contribute to municipal activities. These forums can empower youth to participate in city council meetings, influence policies, and monitor government actions using their right to information. By collaborating with public representatives, youth can strengthen their relationship with local governments and drive the implementation of development objectives outlined in the National Youth Policy 2072, Youth Vision 2025, and the 10-year strategic plan.

Youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also active partners in the present. Their involvement in governance and development is crucial for achieving an inclusive and prosperous Nepal.