Youth participation in the electoral process refers to the active involvement and engagement of young individuals, typically between the ages of 18 and 35, in various aspects of the electoral system within a democratic society.
This involvement can encompass a range of activities including voter registration, casting ballots in elections, standing as candidates, participating in political campaigns, attending political rallies or meetings, and engaging in discussions about political issues and policies. Additionally, it can involve volunteering for political organizations or causes, and advocating for the representation of youth concerns and interests in the political decision-making process.
Overall, youth participation is vital for a vibrant and inclusive democratic system, as it ensures that the perspectives and voices of young citizens are considered in shaping the policies and direction of a nation. The significance of youth involvement in democracy cannot be overstated. Firstly, young people represent the future of any nation. Their active participation in the democratic process ensures that they have a stake in the decisions that will shape their lives and the trajectory of their country.
By engaging in voting, standing as candidates, and participating in political activities, youth contribute to a diverse and dynamic political landscape, infusing new ideas, perspectives, and energy into the political discourse. Moreover, youth often bring a fresh and innovative approach to problem-solving, unburdened by entrenched interests or historical biases.
Their participation fosters a more inclusive and representative democracy, reflecting the diversity of society. Additionally, engaging young people in politics helps cultivate a sense of civic responsibility, critical thinking, and an understanding of the complexities of governance. This, in turn, creates informed and active citizens who are more likely to hold their leaders accountable and participate in community-building efforts beyond the electoral process. Furthermore, excluding young voices from political decision-making risks alienating a significant portion of the population, potentially leading to disillusionment or disengagement from the democratic system altogether.
In sum, youth involvement in democracy is instrumental in ensuring the vitality, relevance, and effectiveness of democratic institutions, ultimately paving the way for a more just, inclusive, and forward-looking society. Pakistan, a South Asian nation with a rich cultural heritage and a history deeply intertwined with the Indian subcontinent, boasts a demographic landscape characterized by a significant youth population.
As of the most recent data available, Pakistan is home to one of the largest cohorts of young individuals globally, with approximately 64% of the population under the age of 30. This burgeoning youth demographic, often defined as those between the ages of 15 and 29, presents both opportunities and challenges for the nation.
II. Historical Context of Youth Participation in Pakistan
A – Evolution of electoral processes in Pakistan
The evolution of electoral processes in Pakistan is a complex journey marked by periods of democratic governance, military rule, and political upheaval. Since its inception in 1947, Pakistan has experienced significant transformations in its electoral system, reflecting the country’s socio-political dynamics and its quest for stable democratic governance.
Pakistan’s first elections were held in 1954 for provincial assemblies. However, the country’s initial years were marked by political instability, with frequent changes in government. The first Constituent Assembly was tasked with framing a constitution, which was adopted in 1956. This marked Pakistan’s initial foray into a parliamentary system of government.
The first military coup in 1958 brought General Ayub Khan to power, leading to a decade of military rule. Ayub introduced the Basic Democracies system in 1960, which diminished the power of political parties and concentrated authority in the hands of local notables. Elections during this period were heavily controlled, limiting genuine political participation.
The military’s political influence receded after the separation of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) in 1971. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, leader of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), assumed power and implemented a new constitution in 1973. This marked a return to civilian rule and introduced a federal parliamentary system. General Zia-ul-Haq’s military coup in 1977 ushered in a prolonged period of military rule.
Zia introduced significant amendments to the constitution, including the controversial Eighth Amendment, which concentrated power in the presidency. Elections during this period were held under controlled conditions with limited political freedoms. Following Zia-ul-Haq’s demise in 1988, Pakistan experienced a period of political turbulence.
The 1988 elections marked a return to democratic governance, with Benazir Bhutto becoming the first female Prime Minister of Pakistan. However, this period was marked by political instability, with frequent changes in government.
General Pervez Musharraf’s military coup in 1999 led to a period of military rule. Musharraf introduced a hybrid system of governance, combining elements of military and civilian rule. He conducted elections in 2002, which were criticized for being manipulated to favor certain political groups.
The assassination of Benazir Bhutto in 2007 galvanized a movement for democratic reforms, leading to elections in 2008. The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) came to power, followed by subsequent democratic transitions. The 18th Amendment to the Constitution in 2010 aimed to restore parliamentary supremacy and devolve greater powers to the provinces.
Recent years have witnessed efforts to enhance the transparency and integrity of electoral processes in Pakistan. The introduction of biometric verification and electronic voting machines (EVMs) has been considered to modernize the voting process and reduce electoral fraud.
B – Role of youth in historical movements
In the context of Pakistan, the role of youth in historical movements has been profoundly influential in shaping the nation’s political and social landscape. Since its inception in 1947, Pakistan has witnessed several pivotal moments where young activists played a crucial role in advocating for change and justice. One of the most notable examples is the Movement for the Restoration of Democracy (MRD) in the 1980s, which saw a surge of young activists challenging the military regime of General Zia-ul-Haq. Students, intellectuals, and young professionals rallied together, organizing protests, strikes, and demonstrations, demanding the restoration of democratic norms and civilian rule. Many of these youthful leaders, such as Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif, went on to become prominent figures in Pakistan’s political landscape.
Additionally, the Lawyers’ Movement of 2007-2009, which aimed to reinstate the deposed Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, saw a significant participation of young lawyers and activists. Their tireless efforts, including long marches and protests, ultimately led to the restoration of the judiciary’s independence.
Furthermore, in recent years, youth-led movements in Pakistan have focused on issues such as education reform, gender equality, and climate change. Malala Yousafzai’s advocacy for girls’ education, especially in the face of the Taliban’s oppressive regime in Swat Valley, resonated globally and brought international attention to the challenges faced by Pakistani youth, particularly young girls, in accessing quality education.
Moreover, the ‘Aurat March’ or Women’s March, which began in 2018, has been driven by a diverse group of young activists advocating for women’s rights and gender equality. Their efforts have sparked important conversations surrounding women’s empowerment and have galvanized a new wave of feminism in Pakistan.
In the realm of climate activism, young Pakistanis have also been making significant strides. The ‘Climate Marches’ organized across the country have brought attention to the environmental challenges faced by Pakistan, including water scarcity, deforestation, and pollution. These movements, largely spearheaded by young environmentalists, highlight the urgency of addressing climate change for the well-being of current and future generations.
IV. Challenges to Youth Participation
Ahead of the next General Election, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) released the final electoral roll figures. For the first time, the ECP has also posted a thorough breakdown of registered voters’ ages on its website. There are now over 122 million registered voters in Pakistan, with 53.8 million of them being young voters (aged 18 to 35), who make up the biggest cohort at over 44% of all registered voters.
Young people have a great deal of influence because of the quantity and proportion of young people who are registered to vote, assuming they can utilize this power wisely. Unfortunately, the youth haven’t been able to exercise this incredible potential in the past since a significant portion of them—roughly 70%—failed to show up at the polls to cast their votes. In eight elections since 1988, exit surveys conducted by renowned pollsters Gallup Pakistan show that, on average, just 31% of young voters (18 to 29 years old) cast ballots in Pakistan.
Compared to the eight elections in which voter turnout for all age groups averaged 45%, this is a significant drop. It’s not as though younger voters are avoiding elections in other nations either. For instance, in the five elections held in neighboring India since 1999, the average turnout of young voters has been 60%, lagging just by 2.6 percentage points below the average turnout of voters of all ages, which is around 62.6%.
In two of the most recent Lok Sabha elections, India’s youth voter participation was so strong that it exceeded the average turnout of voters of all ages by two and three percentage points, respectively. There are many factors that are undermining the participation of youth in the electoral process of Pakistan. Here are some factors or challenges to youth Participation.
A – Socio-economic factors influencing youth involvement
Socio-economic factors play a pivotal role in shaping the level of youth involvement in the electoral process of Pakistan. Firstly, access to education significantly impacts political participation among the youth. The quality of education, availability of educational resources, and exposure to civic education programs greatly influence a young person’s understanding of the electoral system, political ideologies, and the importance of voting. In Pakistan, disparities in educational opportunities persist, with urban areas generally offering better access to quality education compared to rural regions, where youth may face barriers like lack of infrastructure and qualified teachers.
Furthermore, economic conditions directly influence youth engagement in politics. Unemployment and underemployment rates among young individuals can either motivate them to seek change through political means or, conversely, create apathy and disillusionment towards the electoral process.
Economic stability often correlates with a sense of empowerment, as financially secure individuals are more likely to feel invested in the future of their country and, consequently, participate in the democratic process. In Pakistan, a significant portion of the youth population faces economic challenges, which can hinder their active involvement in politics.
Access to information and technology also plays a crucial role. The availability of reliable news sources and access to the internet can empower youth by providing them with the necessary knowledge and tools to make informed political decisions. However, disparities in digital access and media literacy can create a divide, with some youth being more informed and engaged than others.
Moreover, cultural and social norms can shape youth participation. In Pakistan, traditional beliefs and practices may discourage young people, particularly females, from actively participating in politics. Gender roles and societal expectations can limit opportunities for young women to engage in the electoral process, which in turn hinders the overall representation and perspectives of the youth demographic.
B – Political awareness and education
Political awareness and education play a pivotal role in shaping the level of youth participation in the electoral process of Pakistan. However, it is a multifaceted challenge that stems from a variety of factors. Firstly, the educational system in Pakistan often lacks a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes civic education and political awareness.
This deficit leaves young individuals ill-equipped to navigate the complex landscape of politics, diminishing their understanding of the importance of participating in the electoral process. Moreover, limited access to quality education, particularly in rural areas, exacerbates this issue, creating a stark disparity between urban and rural youth in terms of political knowledge and engagement.
Furthermore, the prevailing socio-political climate in Pakistan is marked by a dearth of accessible and unbiased information sources. Misinformation and political biases can be pervasive, leading to confusion and disillusionment among young people. The prevalence of polarized media outlets and the influence of vested interests make it challenging for youth to discern reliable information from the noise of political discourse. This, in turn, hampers their ability to make informed decisions regarding political participation.
Another significant challenge is the disillusionment and apathy that can stem from a perceived lack of efficacy within the electoral system. Many youths in Pakistan may feel disheartened by the prevalence of corruption, nepotism, and a general sense of political inertia. This disillusionment can breed apathy and detachment from the electoral process, as young individuals may believe that their voices and votes hold little real influence.
Moreover, socio-economic disparities within the country contribute to unequal political participation. Economic hardships and lack of access to basic amenities can divert the attention of young individuals away from political engagement, as they may be preoccupied with more immediate concerns. This is particularly true for marginalized communities, where the struggle for basic survival often takes precedence over political participation.
Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Firstly, there is a pressing need for comprehensive civic education reforms within the educational system. A curriculum that fosters critical thinking, civic responsibility, and political awareness can empower young individuals to become informed and active citizens. Additionally, efforts should be made to increase accessibility to unbiased and reliable sources of political information, both through traditional and digital media platforms. Encouraging media literacy and fact-checking skills can also play a pivotal role in combating misinformation.
Furthermore, initiatives aimed at demystifying the electoral process and highlighting the potential impact of youth participation are crucial. This could involve targeted outreach programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns designed to engage young individuals and cultivate a sense of agency within the political sphere. Additionally, measures to address socio-economic disparities and provide opportunities for marginalized communities can go a long way in fostering a more inclusive and participatory political landscape.
C – Barriers related to political culture and traditions
In Pakistan, entrenched political culture and traditions present significant barriers to youth participation in the political process. The country’s political landscape has been historically dominated by established political dynasties and longstanding power structures. This tradition of familial and patronage-based politics can be daunting for young individuals aspiring to enter the arena.
Additionally, there exists a prevailing perception that politics is an exclusive domain reserved for the older generation, reinforcing a generational divide and discouraging young people from actively engaging in political activities. Moreover, cultural norms and societal expectations often prioritize stability and deference to authority over progressive change, dissuading youth from challenging the status quo. These deeply ingrained cultural and traditional norms create a formidable challenge for the meaningful inclusion of young voices in Pakistan’s political discourse.
D – Recommendations for future improvements in youth engagement
Engaging youth in the electoral process is crucial for a healthy and vibrant democracy. Here are some recommendations for improving youth engagement in the electoral process of Pakistan:
1. Civic Education and Awareness:
– Strengthen civic education in schools and colleges to ensure young people understand the importance of voting and their role in shaping the future of the country.
– Conduct workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to inform youth about the electoral process, including voter registration, polling procedures, and the significance of their vote.
2. Digital Outreach and Social Media:
– Leverage social media platforms and digital tools to reach out to the youth demographic. Create engaging content to inform and inspire them to participate in the electoral process.
– Develop informative and interactive websites and apps that provide easy access to electoral information, including registration details, polling locations, candidate profiles, and election results.
3. Youth-Focused Political Education:
– Organize political education programs tailored to the interests and concerns of young people. These programs can cover topics like youth rights, political ideologies, policy issues, and the impact of government decisions on their lives.
4. Youth Representation:
– Encourage political parties to actively involve young people in decision-making processes. This can be done by reserving a certain percentage of party positions for youth, or by creating youth wings within political parties.
5. Youth-Friendly Polling Stations:
– Establish polling stations on or near college and university campuses to make it convenient for students to vote. Provide facilities like transportation, easy access, and comfortable waiting areas.
6. Youth Forums and Debates:
– Organize forums and debates where young people can discuss political issues, voice their concerns, and engage with candidates and elected officials. This provides a platform for meaningful dialogue and helps build a sense of political ownership.
7. Youth Candidates and Leaders:
– Encourage and support young individuals to run for political office. Establish mentorship programs to help them navigate the complexities of the electoral process and gain experience.
8. Targeted Outreach to Marginalized Youth:
– Recognize and address the specific challenges faced by marginalized youth, such as those from low-income backgrounds, minority communities, or rural areas. Provide resources and support to ensure their voices are heard.
9. Incentives for Youth Participation:
– Consider implementing incentives for youth engagement, such as recognition awards, scholarships, or community service credits, to motivate them to actively participate in the electoral process.
10. Feedback Mechanisms:
– Establish channels for young people to provide feedback on the electoral process. Listen to their concerns and suggestions to continuously improve and adapt strategies for youth engagement.
11. Collaboration with Youth Organizations:
– Partner with youth-led organizations, NGOs, and community groups to amplify efforts in engaging young people in the electoral process. These organizations often have valuable insights and established networks.
12.Transparent and Accessible Information:
– Ensure that information related to elections, candidates, and policies is transparent, easily accessible, and presented in a format that resonates with young people.
Author: Sumaira Manzoor – Lecturer in Political Science , Higher Education department Punjab,, Pakistan (PhD Scholar).
(The views expressed in this article belong only to the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of World Geostrategic Insights).
Image Credit: AFP/File