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Inclusive governance in West Africa: ECOWAS and young people lead the discussion in Accra

From 7 to 9 May 2025, Accra will host the Regional Conference on Youth Participation in Governance in West Africa. The aim of this event is to examine mechanisms for youth participation with a view to promoting inclusive governance in the region. In line with its policy of improving people’s living conditions and promoting inclusive governance, ECOWAS is organising this regional conference under the theme: ‘Mobilising youth action to strengthen democratic governance and inclusive development’. This forum for exchange and reflection aims to highlight the challenges associated with youth participation in governance processes. During the conference, participants will address several key themes, including: • The state of democratic governance and youth engagement in the region: mobilising youth action to address governance deficits; • The link between ECOWAS’s democratic governance framework and greater youth engagement for inclusive development; • Harnessing young people’s potential to promote the responsible use of emerging technologies in democratic governance; • Redefining the role of young people in advancing democratic governance and sustainable development; • Promoting intergenerational collaboration in support of democratic governance and inclusive development; • Identifying and adopting innovative strategies for the sustainable engagement of young people in governance processes. The conference aims to strengthen young people’s capacities and skills in order to consolidate their active role in governance, decision-making and inclusive development. It will also foster a better understanding of regional frameworks for democratic governance, whilst highlighting opportunities for constructive and meaningful engagement. This initiative is intended to be a genuine intergenerational platform, conducive to the emergence of collaborative initiatives and the amplification of young people’s voices in support of sustainable democratic engagement. Following the discussions, participants will identify and map out concrete strategies and innovative initiatives at national and regional levels. In the face of technological change, the conference will also provide an opportunity to reflect on mechanisms that enable the responsible use of emerging technologies in the service of democratic governance in West Africa. Participants include youth-led or youth-focused organisations, experts in artificial intelligence, media professionals and representatives, international and African organisations, development partners, as well as ECOWAS staff members. The conference will also bring together leaders of national youth councils, young politicians and young people active in democratic governance. It is worth noting that this conference is taking place against a particular backdrop, as ECOWAS celebrates the activities marking its fiftieth anniversary. This symbolic anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect not only on the organisation’s achievements but also on the challenges ahead, particularly with regard to democratic governance and the inclusion of young people in decision-making processes. The conference is organised by the Commission’s Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security, in collaboration with the CDJS.