Issued by Ezra Mendel on behalf of the FW de Klerk Foundation on 27/03/2025

On 27 and 28 February 2025, the South African Institute of International Affairs (“SAIIA”) hosted a pivotal conference aimed at empowering young leaders to engage with the priorities of the G20 and to familiarise themselves with the Youth 20 (“Y20”) agenda. This gathering underscored a significant shift in global governance, which includes increased recognition of the youth as essential contributors to policy discussions that shape our collective future.

With young people making up the largest portion of the South African population (with an estimated 17,84 million people between the ages of 18 and 35 as of 2019), it is essential to examine the role of the Y20 in ensuring their voices are heard. The Y20 provides a structured platform for youth engagement in international decision-making, offering a space where young leaders can influence policies that will shape their future. Understanding the Y20’s mechanisms and impact is key to fostering a governance system that is inclusive, forward-thinking and responsive to the concerns of younger generations.

So the question then is, what is the Y20? The Y20 serves as an official engagement group of the G20, providing a platform for young leaders from member countries to deliberate on pressing global challenges and propose policy recommendations. These recommendations are compiled into a communiqué, which is presented to G20 leaders for consideration during their summits. This process ensures that the perspectives and insights of the younger generation are integrated into high-level policy discussions, reflecting a commitment to inclusive and forward-thinking governance.

However, the effectiveness of this engagement will depend on the relevance and resonance of the themes chosen by the Y20. It is crucial that these themes not only reflect the global challenges faced by young people, but also align with the specific socio-political context of countries like South Africa, ensuring that the concerns of the youth are addressed in a meaningful and actionable way. Therefore, it is apt that the themes for this year’s Y20 are: “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability”.

The theme of “Uniting for Solidarity” is highly relevant in a South African society that remains deeply divided along racial, economic and political lines. Economic inequality in South Africa is amongst the worst in the world with a GINI coefficient of 0,63, with a staggering youth unemployment rate exceeding 45%. The recent 2024 elections, which resulted in the country’s first national coalition government, underscore the importance of fostering a culture of cooperation and bridging divides, not only in politics, but also in the broader society. Young people, many of whom are disillusioned with traditional governance structures, must be at the forefront of reshaping democratic institutions and rebuilding social trust.

Similarly, “Championing Equality” is a critical issue at this point in South Africa’s history. While legal and political equality have been achieved through constitutional democracy, economic and social disparities remain entrenched. The challenge is no longer just about access to rights, but about ensuring that those rights translate into real opportunities for all citizens. Structural barriers in education (like the continued presence of pit latrines in schools), employment and capital access continue to disadvantage young people, especially those from historically marginalised backgrounds. Moreover, despite progressive gender equality laws, gender-based violence and economic exclusion remain rampant. GBV has even been recognised as a “national crisis”. Addressing these issues through youth-led policy initiatives and international collaboration will be key to achieving meaningful equality.

The theme of “Driving Sustainability” is particularly urgent given South Africa’s ongoing energy crisis, water shortages and the broader impact of climate change. Loadshedding, an overreliance on coal and slow progress with regards to transitioning to renewable energy are all factors that have hindered economic growth and development. A sustainable future for South Africa requires bold shifts toward green industrialisation and climate resilience. Youth-led solutions in the Y20 could provide innovative strategies for a just transition, ensuring that economic opportunities are not lost in the move toward environmental sustainability. Furthermore, South Africa’s growing youth climate activism movement must be incorporated into mainstream policy discussions to ensure long-term environmental security.

With all of this in consideration it becomes even clearer why governments and international organisations should establish formal mechanisms for youth participation in policy formulation and decision-making processes, such as youth advisory councils or the inclusion of youth representatives in delegations to international summits. Secondly, capacity building plays a vital role in ensuring that young people are well-equipped to engage effectively in policy discussions. Investing in education and training programs, including workshops, mentorship initiatives and internships, can provide practical experience and foster leadership development in the youth.

Additionally, funding youth-led initiatives is essential for driving innovation and addressing societal challenges. Establishing dedicated funds to support projects and startups led by young entrepreneurs ensures they have access to financial resources necessary to implement their ideas and contribute meaningfully to economic development. Another key aspect is promoting civic education. Educating young citizens about their rights, responsibilities and the workings of governmental and international institutions empowers them to participate actively in democratic processes and hold leaders accountable.

Finally, leveraging technology can amplify the voices of young people and foster a sense of global community. Digital platforms, including online forums, webinars and social media campaigns, can facilitate dialogue and collaboration among the youth across the world. By implementing these solutions, young leaders can be empowered to transform their insights and energy into impactful contributions to society.

In conclusion, the SAIIA conference and the Y20 platform underscore the imperative of integrating youth perspectives into the global policy-making process. As the largest demographic in the country, young people possess the potential to drive transformative change. South Africa, with its pressing socio-economic disparities, must prioritise the inclusion of youth in governance structures, ensuring that their voices are not only heard but actively shape policy. This will be a crucial element for the advancement of democratic governance, social cohesion and sustainable development.