Youth Policy Forum (YPF): Empowering Youth for Evidence-Based Policy Making

Written By: XYZ Ahmed/Tasnim

The Youth Policy Forum (YPF) is an innovative platform that aims to bridge the gap between young people and policymakers, ensuring that youth voices are heard in the policymaking process. Established with a vision to foster critical thinking, YPF empowers young individuals to engage in discussions, debates, and collaborations centred around evidence-based policies. The forum serves as a vital space for intellectual engagement, where young minds can contribute to the national and international policy landscape.

Origins and Objectives

Founded in Bangladesh, YPF was born out of the realisation that despite being a significant portion of the population, young people are often excluded from meaningful participation in policymaking processes. YPF seeks to change this by creating a platform where youth can learn, engage, and influence policies that affect them. The forum emphasises evidence-based policymaking, encouraging participants to make data-driven decisions and recommendations. YPF’s core mission is to develop an informed, empowered generation capable of making impactful contributions to society.

Core Activities and Initiatives

YPF engages in a range of activities aimed at building capacity among young people and fostering collaboration with policymakers. These include:

1. Policy Dialogues: YPF organises regular discussions and webinars featuring experts, academics, and policymakers on key national and global issues. These dialogues provide young people with the opportunity to directly interact with influential decision-makers.
2. Research and Publications: The forum supports research initiatives, offering a platform for youth to publish policy briefs, research papers, and reports on pressing socio-economic issues. This focus on research ensures that YPF remains a hub for intellectual rigor and informed discourse.
3. Capacity Building Programmes: To ensure that the next generation of policymakers is well-equipped, YPF runs training programmes, workshops, and seminars on topics such as leadership, public policy, and critical thinking. These programmes are designed to enhance the analytical and problem-solving skills of young participants.
4. Youth Leadership Development: YPF places a strong emphasis on developing leadership potential in youth. Through mentorship opportunities and collaborative projects, the forum nurtures future leaders who can champion progressive policies.

Advocacy for Evidence-Based Policy

A key aspect of YPF’s work is its strong advocacy for evidence-based policymaking. The forum encourages young people to engage with data and empirical research when formulating policy recommendations. By emphasising the importance of evidence, YPF seeks to promote a culture of informed decision-making, especially in areas like climate change, public health, education, and social justice. This approach not only enhances the credibility of youth voices in the policy space but also ensures that their contributions are grounded in research and real-world data.

Global Reach and Influence

While YPF has its roots in Bangladesh, it has expanded its influence beyond national borders, engaging with international organisations and youth-led movements. The forum collaborates with like-minded platforms and institutions worldwide, amplifying the voices of young people on global stages such as the United Nations, climate conferences, and international policy forums. YPF’s global presence underscores its commitment to fostering an interconnected world where youth can play an active role in addressing transnational challenges.

Challenges and Future Directions

YPF faces challenges typical of youth-driven organisations, including limited resources and the need for sustained engagement from both policymakers and youth participants. However, the forum continues to grow, leveraging digital platforms and social media to reach a broader audience. Looking ahead, YPF aims to scale its impact by expanding its research capabilities, forging stronger partnerships with governmental bodies, and increasing its influence in international policymaking circles.

Conclusion

The Youth Policy Forum is a pioneering initiative that empowers young people to actively participate in the policymaking process through education, engagement, and advocacy. By prioritising evidence-based policies, YPF ensures that the voices of the youth are not only heard but also respected for their substance and credibility. As the world grapples with complex challenges, YPF stands as a beacon of hope, guiding young leaders toward a future where they can shape policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of their generation.

 

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XYZ Ahmed/Tasnim is an Associate of YPF’s ABC Team. The author can be reached through cde@gmail.com