Youth Engagement and Participation in Local Governance in Central Mali

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Across all the localities studied, young people play a dynamic role in community life, engaging in activities such as sanitation, sports, risk management, agriculture, and conflict resolution. Their contributions are valued by both authorities and the wider population; however, their participation remains largely limited to implementation, with little access to decision-making spaces or opportunities to exert real influence. 

Young people, particularly women and those younger than 25 years old, face obstacles related to social norms, a lack of trust in the system, the monopolization of opportunities by older generations, and the absence of economic resources and tailored training. Despite some innovative initiatives and examples of positive impact, such as youth involvement in land conflict resolution or sanitation projects, their inclusion in planning, crisis management, and local transformation remains incomplete. This is a prospective case study aiming to inform future interventions of UNICEF and partners.