This policy paper examines the limited participation of youth in decision-making within local authorities in three governorates: Aden, Taiz, and Hadramout.

Although young people represent the majority of Yemen’s population, their involvement in local governance remains minimal due to the war, weak institutional structures, lack of transparency, limited local authority powers, and poor communication channels between youth and officials.

Key challenges identified include:

·       Lack of transparency in appointing decision-makers.

·       Political and social elites dominating leadership positions.

·       Aging administrative structures and absence of elected local councils.

·       Poor interpretation and implementation of laws supporting youth engagement.

The paper provides recommendations for enhancing youth participation, including:

Appointing youth to leadership roles, improving communication channels, supporting youth capacity-building programs, activating youth affairs units, involving civil society organizations, and updating relevant laws to guarantee youth representation in local councils and public service.

Overall, the paper stresses that empowering youth in political and local governance roles is essential for achieving sustainable peace and development in Yemen.