There has been a welcome shift in the demography related debates in Pakistan which now place youth at the centre of policy agendas. This has emerged from at least two decades of treating youth as a statistical worry in policy literature – synonymous with a demographic “bulge” that would warrant new patterns of resource distribution, policy and planning.
Speaking about Azad Jammu & Kashmir in particular, the region has a highly developed political culture that accommodates multiple strands of opinion; it represents a microcosm if the mainstream Pakistani political tradition, as well as diverse local political demands. Long history of conflict constitutes a unique political identity among the people of AJ&K, but most of all, a thriving youth cohort at the centre of AJ&K’s political activity, and socio-economic change merits an inquiry that recognises their view.
Youth across AJ&K is dynamic, and has invested in their political system, seeking greater participation through mechanisms available to them. Where political culture denies them opportunity and space. Whether or not their political demands are conveyed to the legislative bodies, young people desire fewer barriers to entry in formal politics, and especially within policy making circles. It is simply not enough to be the member of “youth wing” of any given political party.
Decentralisation of powers from legislative assembly to the smallest administrative unit is the way forward for a better and sustainable democratic environment in AJ&K. This system would not only help ensure transparency and effective infrastructure building but also provides an avenue to the youth into mainstream politics.
Despite from many commitments made by the previous governments in AJ&K, restoration of local bodies elections remains an unresolved political agenda. As result of recently elections held in AJ&K, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has emerged as single largest political party for the first time in the history of AJ&K. PTI has successfully implemented local bodies elections in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in year 2015 which distinguish it from other political parties. Part of the political manifesto for AJ&K, restoration of local bodies elections was one of their key commitment to the people of AJ&K. Several on record commitments and promises were made to hold local bodies elections within 3 months of their government in AJ&K.
As PTI is in the process of forming its government in AJ&K, it is believed to be the right time for advocacy and campaigning around restoration of local bodies elections in AJ&K. Youth from all walks of life are demanding the new government to fulfil their commitment of holding local bodies elections.
A key approach would be to form an informal platform where youth can share their views and agree on a suitable mechanism to put forward their demands to the newly elected government.
Author: Malik Wasim | Humanitarian and Social Activist
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