Youth in South Asia

The prevailing conditions of political and economic insecurity, and the need to address them in a collective manner, are compelling reasons to forge a strong South Asian community capable of acting locally and regionally.

But there is another reason as well. Recent events in the South Asian subcontinent, particularly the disturbing escalation in everyday violence, make it doubly urgent to have a conclave of South Asians who can work past their partisan viewpoints - in search of strategies that may diminish the antagonisms, suspicions and fears. Not addressing the issues young people face today can result in adverse economic, social and political consequences. Governments and policy makers across the region are looking at youth issues, mainly education and employment, and their impact on the countries’ development.

The turbulent past 60 years of South Asia have cost the region dearly. The prospects of a region, which could have been a leading geopolitical entity in a multipolar world, were dampened. Therefore, it is high time new solutions and right directions are sought, especially with the help of the youth of the region. It is they who can effectively make an impact with their contributions, thus leading to the formation of a peaceful democratic South Asia.

Politically, the young generation’s opinion is of crucial importance due to these reasons:

• The youth are the main victims of unrest in South Asia.
• They are at the receiving end due to the economic crisis and burgeoning unemployment.
• Unwelcome religious fundamentalism, terrorism and violent protests in the region are mainly carried out by young soldiers and activists who are deprived of the socio-economic resources of a decent life.
• Nonetheless, South Asia’s youth is open to cultural and economic exchange. The thinking of this new generation is radically different and seeks to heal history’s wounds. They are also aware of having to cross traditional impediments for a wider co-operation between peoples of all races. Thus, the youth of the region are the torchbearers of a globalised world.