As much as the current batch of election hopefuls claim to be in touch with the younger generation, they could not be further away from the truth. This is shown in the lack of younger candidates.

None of the political parties contesting the general elections have put forward the names of individuals who have a closer connection to the youth or are of a similar age. This means that there has been very little consideration for the needs of the younger generation. Candidates may argue that they have children or grandchildren, but there is a gap that they are ignoring. Political parties need to address this.

Most candidates are over 50 years old, more are in the 60 to 70 year category, and then we have some who are over 80, with ailing health, but in no way agreeing to let go of the power and the gain an elected position would bring. It is estimated that close to 45 per cent of the nation’s population is between 15 and 29 years old. This represents close to 90,000 people and of this number, more than 40,000 are eligible to vote. Yet, there have been no considerations to look at the needs of this generation. They can no longer be neglected.

The notion that one solution fits all does not necessarily work. There is a need for policies and strategies focused on youth. Even if it is to be believed that the national youth council are in touch of the issues and needs of the youths of Samoa, did any of the parties talk to the youth members in their villages on the issues they face and the solutions they need from the government?

We have to remember that the world has evolved, and its dynamic nature only suggests that what was once good 10 years ago, may not apply to the youth of today. The challenges they face now are different from the challenges faced when the candidates were of that age. Not including youth at policy policy-making level does not reflect the will of the entire population. Elected officials do not just represent those over the age of 21 or those similar in age to them. Their decision impacts children and youth below the voting age.

For political systems to be representative, all parts of society must be included. When young people are disenfranchised or disengaged from political processes, a significant portion of the population has little or no voice or influence in decisions that affect group members’ lives. A key consequence is the undermining of political systems’ representativeness.

To make a difference in the longer term, young people must be engaged in formal political processes and have a say in formulating today’s and tomorrow’s politics. Inclusive political participation is not only a fundamental political and democratic right but also is crucial to building stable and peaceful societies and developing policies that respond to the specific needs of younger generations. For young people to be adequately represented in political institutions, processes, and decision-making, and in particular in elections, they must know their rights and be given the necessary knowledge and capacity to participate in a meaningful way at all levels.

When there are obstacles to participating in formal, institutionalised political processes, young people can rapidly feel disempowered. Many tend to believe that their voices are not going to be heard or that they will not be taken seriously, even if they are heard. The problem becomes circular as politicians may lose interest in responding to the aspirations of young people if they cannot win their votes. This, in turn, leads to young people being increasingly excluded from taking part in decision-making or in debates about key socio-economic and political issues, despite their sensitivity to the demands for social equity and justice, environmental protection and cultural diversity.

There is still time for political parties to have a few younger candidates.