One in five people today are between the ages of 15 and 25.  This number is predicted to increase further, as many developing countries in particular will see steady rises in their younger population groups. Successfully including this growing group of youths in democratic processes poses great challenges, but also great opportunities.  To date, however, young people often find themselves on the fringes of the political process, with poor representation in virtually all parliaments. 

This brief will explore why it has proven difficult for them to enter politics – and parliaments - and how can they be better supported.   The brief discusses the main challenges, lists case studies and provides parliamentary action points.