In an groundbreaking move to empower Liberia’s youth and amplify their voices in national governance, the Youth Legislative Caucus is gearing up to host an unprecedented town hall event with the Speaker of the 55th National Legislature.
Comprising 12 elected lawmakers, the Youth Legislative Caucus has swiftly become a crucial advocate for youth interests within the Legislature since its establishment earlier this year. With its mission to bridge the gap between young Liberians and legislative leadership, the Caucus is set to facilitate a groundbreaking dialogue at the upcoming town hall.
Chairperson of the Caucus, Hon. Frank Saah Foko, underscored the significance of the event, emphasizing its role in fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between young people and the legislature. “Our aim is to ensure that young people are not only aware of the legislative agenda but also actively engaged in shaping it,” stated Hon. Foko.
The town hall, slated to take place in the esteemed chambers of the legislature, is poised to attract a diverse array of youth leaders, including representatives from civil society, entrepreneurship, and political parties. With youth comprising a substantial majority of Liberia’s population, the event holds promise for strengthening the bonds between government institutions and the country’s vibrant youth demographic.
Michael Moore, a young entrepreneur, lauded the initiative as a critical step towards enhancing government accountability and youth participation. “This town hall provides a unique opportunity for young entrepreneurs like myself to directly engage with legislative leaders and advocate for our needs,” shared Moore.
In addition to the town hall, the Youth Legislative Caucus is planning a strategic retreat, where members will collaborate with development partners to develop a comprehensive youth agenda for the upcoming legislative session. This agenda will encompass key legislative proposals aimed at addressing the pressing issues facing young Liberians.
Furthermore, the Caucus is organizing a national youth town hall focused on the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court—a pivotal issue for post-war Liberia. Hon. Foko emphasized the importance of youth engagement in this critical matter, highlighting the need for widespread awareness and mobilization to ensure justice and accountability.
As Liberia strives towards inclusive governance and national reconciliation, initiatives spearheaded by the Youth Legislative Caucus offer hope for meaningful youth participation and empowerment. Through dialogue, advocacy, and collaborative action, young Liberians are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of their nation and driving sustainable development.
