The evolution of African National Youth Policies: Lessons and remaining gaps

Demographically, Africa is the youngest region in the world. So, how are national governments in the region approaching youth policies? A forthcoming National Youth Policy (NYP) Africa Dataset maps how governments address youth issues through national-level policy frameworks. This policy brief summarizes key insights. We assume that the ability to achieve demographic dividends from a youthful population is contingent on strengthening governance in the youth area. Understanding variation in national youth policies across Africa and over time facilitates assessments of whether and how existing national youth policies have a meaningful impact for youth.