ASSESSMENT ON POLITICAL PARTICIPATION OF YOUTH AND ITS CHALLENGES: THE CASE OF SODO WOREDA, GURAGE ZONE

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the political participation of youth and its challenges in Sodo Woreda, Gurage zone. Besides, the study attempted to describe the status of youth political participation in the study area and also identified possible ways that can enhance youth participation in politics. The qualitative methodological approach was employed as a suitable method to address the research questions and objectives. In this study, both primary and secondary sources of data were employed. Purposive sampling and data gathering instruments such as semi-structured interview, focus group discussions and document analysis were employed. Besides, the gathered data were analyzed using the descriptive thematic data analysis technique. The results of the study revealed that youth participation status is low and there is no effective and inclusive political participation of youth in the Woreda. The study also assessed the challenges, which hinder the participation of young people in politics. The challenges that are revealed in the study comprise lack of political knowledge and awareness, institutional challenges and incumbent performances, lack of interest in politics and apathy, fear of politics, partisan attachment and political repression, family and community pressure, socio-economic challenges, demographic and cultural factors, and challenges related to ethnicity and lack of security. The study identified possible ways to enhance participation such as access to media and the internet, the existence of youth organizations and public councils, and a multi-party system. Based on the findings and conclusions the study recommends the necessity of taking practical measures to create suitable environment and youth-oriented platforms.