Youth Parliament: A tool to bridge the gap between youth and governance

The contemporary context of Bangladesh underscores the critical need for a youth parliament or a youth assembly. Such a platform would help young people develop democratic values and leadership skills through organised political discussions.

While we've seen many mock parliaments and debates, it's time for a formal, nationally recognised youth parliament.

In recent times, the youth of Bangladesh have demonstrated their potential for leadership and constructive engagement in national affairs. While immediate large-scale involvement in state responsibilities may not be practical, a representative youth parliament can serve as a valuable intermediary.

The youth possess a unique understanding of their challenges and can offer innovative solutions for a better future. However, they often lack formal platforms for discussing these ideas. While social media debates reflect their engagement, they can sometimes destabilise national decision-making.

A youth parliament can channel this energy constructively, fostering solutions and strengthening democratic principles. This platform would allow youth to practise democratic principles without compromising state decision-making and learn to accept diverse perspectives. Ultimately, youth can play a crucial role in shaping national policy through their participation in a youth parliament.

To ensure a representative and inclusive youth parliament, some structural issues should be addressed carefully. A transparent and democratic electoral process should be implemented to select representatives from diverse regions and educational institutions. This will help to guarantee that the parliament reflects the diversity of the youth population, including those from varying socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnicities, and genders.

The parliament can then delve into a wide range of contemporary issues, such as education, employment, environment, and health, fostering discussions and debates. To streamline their work, members can form committees focused on specific topics.

To facilitate effective governance and maintain order during parliamentary proceedings, a clear leadership structure, such as a Speaker and Deputy Speaker, should be established. Then by engaging with government officials, the youth parliament can exchange ideas and submit recommendations. 

To ensure the success of the youth parliament, it is essential to provide adequate funding for its operations, including staffing, training, and facilities. Experienced individuals should also be involved as mentors to guide young parliamentarians and help them develop their skills and knowledge. Besides teachers, researchers and experts from relevant private sectors in a youth parliament can greatly enhance the experience for young participants. Their expertise can provide students with a deeper understanding of various issues, helping them form well-informed opinions.

Educators and researchers can also offer real-world perspectives, bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications. Furthermore, they can serve as mentors, helping students develop their leadership skills.

However, it's essential to strike the right balance between student autonomy and expert guidance. While educators and researchers should provide support and mentorship, the final decision-making power should rest with the students. Additionally, the number of educators and researchers should be proportionate to the overall membership, ensuring that student voices remain dominant. The selection process for these individuals should prioritise their qualifications and relevant experience. 

To facilitate effective dialogue and collaboration, it is essential to establish regular communication channels between the youth parliament and government officials. The youth parliament should appoint a group of leaders to represent their recommendations to the government and relevant committees. Moreover, the government should be held accountable for its response to these proposals. It is also crucial to raise public awareness about the parliament's activities and its role in shaping the future.

By addressing all the issues discussed, the establishment of a youth parliament in Bangladesh could be a significant step forward in promoting youth participation, nurturing democratic values, and building a more inclusive and prosperous society. 

Sketch:TBS

Samira Tasnim is a Research Associate at Bangladesh Institute of Governance and Management (BIGM). 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.