Youth involvement in formulation of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals: case of Zimbabwe

Abstract

This research focuses on youth involvement in the formulation of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals: A case of Zimbabwe. The research examined various efforts by government, The United Nation’s Agencies and Civil society organisations on and offline, to involve young people in the SDG formulation process in Zimbabwe, the obstacles, strengths and weaknesses of approaches employed. It also provides recommendations to improve engagements of young people in policy shaping and practice in Zimbabwe, Africa and the world. The study will proffer lessons learnt from engaging young people in the SDG formulation process, the socio-cultural, economic and political challenges that inhibit involvement of young people in policy formulation and recommendations to tackle these challenges to increase youth participation in the implementation and monitoring off the SDGs. The study revealed that young people’s participation in the process was at varying levels, depending on their socio, cultural, economic and political circumstances. Purposive sampling was employed with use of semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to collect data.