The role of youth in the national human rights system in the MENA

The political transition that the MENA had witnessed led to the recognition of the importance of human rights, equality, and economic reforms, especially amongst youth. The unified slogan “freedom, dignity, and social Justice” across social and political demonstrations over the last decade unveils the significance attached to human rights. The role of youth in the political and social transformations in the region is well-established, and youth are recognized as important social actors and drivers of change. Thus, actors working in the field of human rights are compelled to identify new forms of work to support the potential of youth in advocating for human rights.

Based on the premise that young people are the main beneficiary of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, this study sheds light on the role of youth in the national human rights systems in four MENA countries: Algeria, Jordan, Morocco, and Tunisia. In this context, the study explores how state actors (e.g., NHRIs, Governmental Human Rights Focal Points and Ministries of Youth) can engage with youth inclusively and collaboratively.

The study seeks to understand the challenges and conditions facing young people in the MENA region. It analyses the youth policies in the countries under review and highlights some of the main issues related to their formulation and implementation. Youth economic and political engagement is examined subsequently in the context of broader civil society mobilization. The study offers some relevant recommendations as a preliminary outline to engage youth in the MENA's national human rights systems.