Kathmandu: Nepal is a youth-dominated country. According to the National Youth Policy 2072, youth aged 16 to 40 constitute about 40 percent of the total population, while the share of youth aged 18 to 40 in the voter list is more than 52 percent. Voting is the cornerstone of democracy. However, youth voting participation in recent elections has not yet reached the desired level. This article will discuss the reasons, challenges and solutions for maximizing youth voting.

Voting is the supreme right of citizens in a democratic system. It elects the government and includes the voice of the common citizen in policymaking. In Nepal, youth won 41 percent of the posts in the 2079 local level elections. Youth representation was also notable in the parliamentary elections. However, youth presence at polling stations is low. Following the recent GenZ-led movement against corruption, the Election Commission has registered more than 915,000 first-time voters for the federal elections on 2082 Falgun 21. More than two-thirds of them are from the GenZ generation. This is encouraging but needs to be made permanent.

There are major reasons for low youth participation. First, distrust in politics. The dominance of old leadership, corruption, and a culture of not giving opportunities to youth. Second, lack of voter education. Many youth are unaware of the background of candidates, party manifestos, and the voting process. Third, business and foreign employment. Fourth, misinformation and confusion spread on social media. These are the reasons why youth are staying away from voting. According to the study, the total voter turnout in the 2079 elections was 61 percent, but it was even lower among the youth.

How does maximum youth participation benefit the country?
The young generation brings new ideas, technologies, and perspectives. Their votes shape youth-centric policies on issues such as education, employment, health, climate change, and inclusive development. Corruption is controlled because youth want transparent and accountable governance. The work done by young people's representatives at the local level seems to have accelerated development. Youth participation makes democracy vibrant and strong. Prosperity is impossible in a developing country like Nepal without youth activism.

Now the main question: How to increase youth participation?
First, the Election Commission should conduct a comprehensive youth-focused voter education program. Classes, quizzes, seminars and ‘model parliament’ programs should be made mandatory in schools, colleges and universities. Second, social media campaigns. Expand campaigns like UNDP’s ‘My Vote Matters’ to the national level. Short videos, infographics, live sessions and celebrity participation on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook can attract youth. Continue hashtag campaigns like #NotAgain.

Third, political parties should empower their youth wings. Reservation or priority for at least 33 percent youth in central committees and candidate selection. Fourth, use of technology. Make online voter registration, mobile apps and SMS alerts more convenient. Fifth, door-to-door awareness programs in collaboration with local youth clubs, NGOs, IFES and UNICEF. Certificates, scholarships or competition prizes should be given for voting. Sixth, weekly programs through radio, television and community radio.

The government should fully implement the National Youth Policy and conduct youth voter camps in every province and local level. The door-to-door campaign to be run by the Election Commission from Falgun 03 to Falgun 17, 2082 should be made effective through youth volunteers. Teachers and parents should also be trained to motivate the youth.

Finally, the bright future of Nepal is in the hands of the youth. Every youth should understand the power of their vote. Vote compulsorily in the elections of 2082 Falgun 21. Instill the feeling that “change is possible only if I vote”. The role of parents, teachers, leaders, media and society is equally important. Let the youth wake up, vote, build Nepal! Only with maximum youth participation will our democracy become strong, inclusive and prosperous.