Africa’s slow development, which disproportionately affects young people, is a primary root cause of insecurity. In the absence of youth policies at national, regional and continental levels, young people are pushed into vulnerable situations, including armed conflict, violent extremism and criminality. This policy brief argues for a shift from the Youth, Peace and Security agenda to a Youth, Peace and Development agenda, in which development is central to achieving peace.

About the authors 

Maram Mahdi is a Researcher in the African Peace and Security Governance Programme, ISS Addis Ababa. 

Adivhaho Ramaite is a Research Officer in the Executive Director’s Office, ISS Pretoria. 

David Willima is a Research Officer in the Southern Africa Programme, ISS Pretoria. 

Nicodemus Minde is a Researcher in the East Africa Peace and Security Governance Programme, ISS Nairobi.