Across Africa, young people remain committed to democracy – but their confidence in how it works in practice is being tested.
What do young Africans think about democracy, political leadership and their economic prospects – and what do their views tell us about the future of governance on the continent?
Drawing on Afrobarometer’s Round 10 surveys, conducted across 38 African countries in 2024–2025, this public seminar explores how young Africans aged 18–35 experience and evaluate democracy, governance and socio-economic conditions.
The findings reveal a tension between democratic commitment and growing disaffection. Most young Africans prefer democracy and reject authoritarian rule, yet many are dissatisfied with how democracy works and are more willing to accept military intervention when elected leaders abuse power.
Youth also tend to participate less in national elections than their elders. Their views and evaluations of institutions and leaders are generally negative - they are less likely to trust governance institutions and leaders and more likely to view them as corrupt.
The seminar will also explore young Africans’ economic experiences and expectations, including employment, policy priorities and migration intentions – and what these trends mean for the future of democracy on the continent.
Speakers
- Joseph Asunka, CEO Afrobarometer
- Henrik Urdal, Research Professor at PRIO
