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Inclusive Governance in West Africa: ECOWAS and Young People Lead the Discussion in Accra

The Regional Conference on Youth Participation in Governance in West Africa will take place in Accra from 7 to 9 May 2025. The aim of this event is to examine mechanisms for youth participation in order to promote 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: “Harnessing Youth Agency in Deepening Democratic Governance and Inclusive Development.” This forum for discussion and reflection aims to highlight the challenges relating to 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; • Linking the ECOWAS democratic governance framework with greater youth engagement to foster inclusive development; • Harnessing the potential of young people 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 for democratic governance and inclusive development; • Identifying and adopting innovative strategies for sustainable youth engagement in governance processes. The conference aims to build the capacities and skills of young people to consolidate their active role in governance, decision-making and inclusive development. It will also foster a better understanding of regional democratic governance frameworks, whilst highlighting opportunities for constructive and meaningful engagement. This initiative is intended to be a truly intergenerational platform, conducive to the emergence of collaborative initiatives and the amplification of young people’s voices for 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 for the responsible use of emerging technologies to support democratic governance in West Africa. Participants will include youth-led or youth-oriented organisations, artificial intelligence experts, media professionals and representatives, international and African organisations, development partners, CSO representatives, and ECOWAS staff members. The conference will also bring together leaders of national youth councils, young politicians, and young individuals involved in democratic governance. It should be noted that this conference is taking place in a unique context, as ECOWAS marks its fiftieth anniversary. This symbolic anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect not only on the organisation’s achievements, but also on the challenges ahead, particularly in the areas of democratic governance and the inclusion of young people in decision-making processes.