Youth Practice Parliament Empowers 38 Young Leaders in National Decision-Making

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Maldivian Parliament have concluded the sixth Youth Practice Parliament, an initiative designed to equip the next generation with the skills necessary to shape the country's future. Running from August 1 to 8, the program hosted 38 participants who engaged in an intensive curriculum focused on democracy, the Maldivian political system, civic education, and the fundamental rights and responsibilities of citizens. This iteration marks the 14th overall Practice Parliament conducted, with six specifically tailored to youth engagement. UNDP Resident Representative to the Maldives, Adnan Cheema, emphasized that the program is critical for developing the capacity of young people to contribute meaningfully to national governance. In an interview following the closing ceremony, Cheema highlighted that participants developed essential soft skills, including critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to articulate complex opinions on policy issues. Beyond theoretical knowledge, the participants gained direct, practical exposure to the inner workings of the Majlis (the Maldivian Parliament). The training covered the intricacies of parliamentary procedures, the lawmaking process, government accountability, budget reviews, and the specialized function of committee work. According to Cheema, stepping into the shoes of a Member of Parliament provides an invaluable perspective on the responsibilities and pressures of legislative leadership. The program aims to bridge the gap between young citizens and the political sphere, encouraging a new wave of youth to participate in political activities and consider contesting formal political positions in the future. Participants described the experience as transformative, noting that the program significantly empowered them to take a more active role in civic participation. By simulating the legislative process, the UNDP and Parliament seek to foster a more inclusive political environment where the voices of the youth are not only heard but are integrated into the decision-making processes that determine the Maldives' trajectory.