Local Youth Councils: Empowering Youth in Local Governance
As part of its efforts to strengthen youth participation in public life, Sharek Youth Forum has supported and developed Local Youth Councils as youth-led platforms that enable young people to actively engage in local governance and community affairs. These councils have served as a practical model for integrating youth into municipal and local development processes by providing opportunities for them to participate in community discussions, contribute to identifying local development priorities, and work alongside municipalities and local institutions.
Over the past fifteen years, Sharek Youth Forum has contributed to the establishment of more than 50 local youth councils across different Palestinian governorates. This initiative has provided thousands of young people with opportunities to participate in community and municipal work while gaining practical experience in leadership, civic engagement, and volunteerism.
These councils have also played an important role in strengthening the leadership and administrative capacities of young people through specialized training programs in leadership, civic participation, community initiative management, and local policy development. Through these experiences, many young participants have been able to transform their ideas into practical initiatives that serve their communities and enhance their confidence in their ability to drive positive change.
As a result, many young people have become better prepared to engage in public and political life, as the councils provide a practical training environment that helps them understand the mechanisms of municipal governance and legislative processes. This experience equips them with the knowledge and confidence necessary to participate effectively in local and legislative elections. In this way, Local Youth Councils have contributed to building a new generation of young leaders capable of participating in decision-making and promoting sustainable development within their communities.
