BY NED GAGAHE
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has highlighted the need to strengthen youth participation in Solomon Islands’ political and democratic processes, noting that young people make up the majority of the country’s population.
UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative Ms. Munkhtuya Altangerel said increasing youth engagement in governance and decision-making is a key priority in the organisation’s ongoing support to Solomon Islands.
Speaking to local media in Honiara, Ms. Altangerel said targeted efforts are needed to ensure young people are not only aware of democratic processes but are actively involved in shaping national development.
“We also want to look at political participation of especially young people,” she said.
Ms. Altangerel pointed out that approximately 75 per cent of Solomon Islands’ population is under the age of 35, making youth engagement a critical factor for the country’s future governance and stability.
“Seventy-five per cent of the population of Solomon Islands is under the age of 35,” she said.
She said UNDP is working with key institutions, including the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission and civil society organisations, to strengthen civic education and encourage broader participation in electoral and governance processes.
According to Ms. Altangerel, youth inclusion is essential not only for elections but also for long-term nation-building and policy development across sectors.
She said discussions held during her week-long visit included engagements with government ministries, Parliament, development partners and youth-focused organisations, including the National Youth Congress.
Ms. Altangerel also emphasised the importance of preparing young people to take on leadership roles in the future, particularly as the country moves towards the 2028 election cycle.
She added that governance remains one of UNDP’s core areas of support in Solomon Islands, alongside climate resilience and institutional strengthening.
The UNDP representative said ensuring meaningful youth participation will help strengthen transparency, accountability and inclusive decision-making across all levels of government.
Her comments come as UNDP continues its broader engagement with the Solomon Islands Government on governance reform, electoral preparedness and community development initiatives.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
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