Kayapalat Empowering Youth for a Stronger Democracy
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Janakpurdham, March 25, 2025 – A two-day Youth Democracy Workshop concluded on March 22, 2025, in lalgadh, Dhanusha, engaging young minds in discussions on democracy, governance, and accountability. The event, organized by Kayapalat with support from Accountability Lab Nepal, aimed to educate and empower youth on their role in strengthening democratic institutions.
The workshop featured interactive sessions on fundamental democratic values, active citizenship, election participation, Right to Information (RTI), and governance mechanisms. Experts and facilitators guided participants through the 7-step local-level planning process, enabling them to design youth-led interventions in policy-making.
Experts Emphasize the Importance of Democracy
One of the key speakers, Diwakar Uprety, engaged participants with an interactive exercise differentiating Monarchy and Democracy using a step forward and backward tool. He explained that democracy ensures people’s participation in governance and accountability mechanisms.
“Democracy is not just about voting; it’s about participation and questioning authorities to ensure transparency,” Uprety said. “It’s our responsibility to hold those in power accountable.”
Uprety also led a session on misinformation and disinformation, explaining their impact on democratic institutions. He warned that misleading narratives could destabilize democracy if left unchecked. “In the digital age, misinformation spreads fast, and if we fail to verify facts, it can weaken public trust in governance,” he added.
Electoral Rights and Youth Participation Discussed
Another session focused on election voting rights and youth participation, conducted by Avilesh Kumar Karn. He provided insights into Nepal’s electoral system and encouraged young voters to engage in democratic processes.
“Young people have the power to shape policies through voting. We must ensure that our voices are heard and our votes count,” Karn emphasized. His session featured discussions and presentations that energized participants about the electoral system and democratic representation.
Karn also led an important discussion on RTI and transparency, explaining how the Right to Information Act allows citizens to demand accountability from public institutions. “When we ask questions and seek information, we push the system toward transparency and good governance,” he remarked.
Good Governance and Accountability in Focus
In another session, Assistant Professor Ashok Sah from Rajarshi Janak University spoke on Good Governance and Government Accountability. He highlighted governance challenges and urged young people to identify and address local issues proactively.
“Good governance is about accountability, transparency, and responsiveness to public needs,” Sah said. “If young people are aware and engaged, they can demand better governance and policies that reflect their needs.”
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The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment among participants to engage in democratic processes and advocate for transparent governance. Many attendees expressed how the sessions reshaped their understanding of democracy and governance.
“This workshop made me realize how powerful youth voices are,” said Jyoti Thakur, participant of program. “We often feel disconnected from politics, but now I see that democracy starts with our active involvement.”
Organizers highlighted that such initiatives are crucial for creating a new generation of responsible and informed citizens.
“Our goal is to ensure that young people don’t just understand democracy in theory but practice it in their daily lives,” said a representative from Kayapalat Balaram Sah. “An informed citizenry is the backbone of any strong democracy.”
With Nepal’s evolving democratic landscape, the Youth Democracy Workshop provided a critical platform for young leaders to learn, question, and take action toward a more accountable and transparent governance system.