The Pan-African Peacemaker Alliance (PAPA) has called on South Sudan’s lawmakers to adopt and legislate the National Youth Policy, arguing it will secure young people’s right to participate fully in public life, including standing for elected office.
PAPA’s statement notes that in June last year the cabinet endorsed a National Youth Development Agenda, with President Salva Kiir encouraging young people to be innovative and forward-looking. Turning that agenda into law, PAPA says, would provide a binding framework for implementation.
According to the policy, “youth” is defined as people aged 18–35. In South Sudan—where an estimated 70% of the population is under 30—PAPA says the policy is critical to harness the country’s demographic potential. The organisation adds that nationwide youth dialogues held in 2024 have underscored strong support for reforms that expand opportunities and protect rights.
PAPA highlights that the policy is designed to:
- Increase access to digital technology and skills,
- Equip young people with entrepreneurship training to become community “game-changers”,
- Promote meaningful participation in decision-making,
- Combat discrimination and preventable disease affecting youth.
“Legislating the National Youth Policy will empower young South Sudanese, safeguard their rights, and provide clear accountability for delivery,” the statement concludes. PAPA is urging the “August House” to prioritise the bill in the current legislative agenda.
