The development and implementation of a youth democracy curriculum in Tunisia is designed to ensure that young women and men, too often marginalized from political processes, are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively participate in, and contribute to, the consolidation and strengthening of their democracies. This project began as a response to concerns about the declining participation of young people in politics, and discussions with national partners who noted the lack of youth leaders in the field of democracy building.
Implemented by the Stockholm-based International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, the project works to support and strengthen democratic institutions and processes around the world to develop sustainable, effective, and legitimate democracies. The project’s curriculum is designed to build the capacities of youth in two primary areas: technical knowledge of democratic institutions and processes; and practical skills such as team building, research and writing, negotiating, analytical thinking, public speaking, and debating.
The youth democracy curriculum will be piloted with 22 young people from across Tunisia. Participants will graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary for future careers and with a strengthened capacity to play a meaningful and active role in democracy building in their countries. A paid internship program will be offered to interested graduates to prepare them for a long-term career in democratic governance. In addition, a network of young participants will be developed to increase outreach among their peers, encouraging the sharing of information, knowledge resources, upcoming activities such as conferences and workshops, and job opportunities. This will widen the network of young people with a non-violent approach to engaging in political processes.