Role of Civil Society Organizations in National Youth Policy Formulation and Implementation: a Case Study of Somalia National Youth Organization

Abstract

This study concentrated on and emphasized the duty of civil society organizations in national youth policy design and implementation. The National Youth Policy, formulated and implemented by the federal government of Somalia, is supposed to be inclusive. Stakeholders, including national youth organizations, must contribute and participate throughout the process. While youth organizations were mentioned as contributors, the contribution of the Somali National Youth Organization was not sufficient in the formulation and implementation stages. The study had three objectives which were: to identify the scope of engagement of national youth organizations in national youth policy formulation and execution, to find out the forums that facilitate the participation of the youths in national youth policy formulation and implementation, and to explain challenges that undermine the participation of these youth organizations in federal policy formulation and implementation. Both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were used, and the researcher employed different methods, such as focus group discussions and interviews, for collecting data. The method is a vital element of the research since it allows many responses to be obtained within a shorter time frame. Most of the members of the Somali National Youth Organization expressed that they actively participate in implementing national youth policy. Policymakers engage these groups in formulating and implementing national youth policy. Voting, joining political parties, trade unions, creating and joining youth councils, and activism are the channels that national youth members use to formulate and implement national youth policy in Somalia. The constitution, national youth act, and national elections act were identified as the laws and acts that give youth the right to participate in policy formulation in Somalia. In addition, it became clear that the existing multiparty system and the national youth policy mandate the Somali government to create channels encouraging youth engagement in civic responsibilities. The engagement of this population in politics is important in Somalia. Youth make up over 75% of the Somali population, and being part of any decision-making process translates to inclusiveness in policy making and the satisfaction of the needs of millions of Somalis. Also, youth participation in politics enhances skills development and knowledge acquisition, especially on matters related to critical resources that affect their lives. The Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs must continuously enhance the political landscape to enable the unlimited engagement of the Somali National Youth Organization and other young persons in policy formulation, which guarantees ownership of federal initiatives arising from the resulting policies.