Introduction
The African Youth Charter (AYC), adopted in 2006, has been a cornerstone document for youth empowerment and development across the African continent. As we approach its 20th anniversary in 2026, it is imperative to reflect on its impact, relevance, and areas for improvement to better align with the current realities and aspirations of African youth. This concept note outlines a campaign to be launched during Africa Youth Month 2024, focusing on youth conversations and consultations about the AYC's relevance and potential amendments.
Campaign Title
"AYC@20: Reflect, Reimagine, Revitalize"
Objectives
- Reflect: Assess the impact and relevance of the African Youth Charter over the past two decades.
- Reimagine: Engage youth in envisioning a Charter that addresses contemporary challenges and opportunities.
- Revitalize: Propose amendments to the Charter to better suit the current context of African youth.
Key Activities
1. Launch Event (November 1, 2024)
- Pan African Youth Forum: A high-level session at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa to kick off the campaign. This event will gather 200 young Africans to discuss the AYC's impact and identify key areas for consultation.
2. Thematic Weeks (November 2024)
- Week 1: Education and Training
- Workshops and Webinars: Focus on the role of education in youth empowerment and how the AYC can better support educational initiatives.
- Week 2: Employment and Entrepreneurship
- Panel Discussions: Address youth unemployment and entrepreneurship, exploring how the AYC can foster better job creation and support for young entrepreneurs.
- Week 3: Health and Well-being
- Health Forums: Discuss health challenges faced by youth, including mental health, and how the AYC can incorporate more robust health provisions.
- Week 4: Participation and Governance
- Youth Parliaments: Simulated parliamentary sessions where youth can debate and propose amendments to the AYC.
3. Youth Consultations (December 2024 - June 2025)
- Online Surveys and Polls: Collect widespread input from youth across the continent on the AYC's relevance and needed amendments.
- Focus Group Discussions: Conducted in various regions to gather in-depth insights from diverse youth groups, including marginalized communities.
4. Mid-Campaign Review (May 2025)
- Interim Report: Publish and disseminate a report at the 5th Specialized Technical Committee Meeting, summarizing the findings from the consultations and initial recommendations for amendments.
5. Drafting Amendments (August 2025 - February 2026)
- Expert Panels: Convene panels of youth leaders, legal experts, and policymakers to draft proposed amendments based on consultation feedback.
- Public Review: Share the draft amendments for public review and further input.
6. Final Event (July 2, 2026)
- 20th Anniversary Summit: A grand event to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the AYC, present the final proposed amendments, and discuss the way forward for youth empowerment in Africa.
Expected Outcomes
- Comprehensive Review: A thorough assessment of the AYC's impact and relevance.
- Youth-Driven Amendments: Proposed amendments to the AYC that reflect the current needs and aspirations of African youth.
- Enhanced Engagement: Strengthened platforms for youth participation in policy-making processes.
- Increased Awareness: Greater awareness of the AYC and its importance among African youth and stakeholders.
Partners and Stakeholders
- African Union Commission (AUC)
- Youth Organizations and Networks
- Government Ministries of Youth
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
- International Development Partners
- Private Sector
Conclusion
The 20th anniversary of the African Youth Charter presents a unique opportunity to reflect on its achievements, reimagine its future, and revitalize its provisions to better serve the dynamic and diverse youth population of Africa. By prioritizing youth conversations and consultations, this campaign aims to ensure that the AYC remains a living document that continues to empower and uplift African youth for decades to come.
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