This chapter analyses youth representation in South Africa, a nation where the “Born-Free” generation faces persistent barriers to political participation. Despite their demographic significance, youth representation in parliament remains limited, as evidenced by low numbers of young Members of Parliament and unfavourable age representation index scores. By drawing on Afrobarometer data, this study explores youth concerns and assesses the political consequences of the #FeesMustFall movement, tracing the transition of student activists into national politics. Leveraging original biographic datasets and parliamentary records from the sixth National Assembly (2019–2024), the chapter profiles young parliamentarians, with a focus on the activity of former student activists. By juxtaposing youth priorities with parliamentary responsiveness, it highlights challenges in translating activism into tangible policy outcomes. Ultimately, this research investigates whether increased youth presence in parliament leads to substantive policy changes, addressing the pressing issues facing South African youth in the post-apartheid era.

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Youth Representation in South Africa: From University Walls to Parliamentary Halls

  • André Marinha,
  • João Conduto,
  • João Gaio e Silva

摘要

This chapter analyses youth representation in South Africa, a nation where the “Born-Free” generation faces persistent barriers to political participation. Despite their demographic significance, youth representation in parliament remains limited, as evidenced by low numbers of young Members of Parliament and unfavourable age representation index scores. By drawing on Afrobarometer data, this study explores youth concerns and assesses the political consequences of the #FeesMustFall movement, tracing the transition of student activists into national politics. Leveraging original biographic datasets and parliamentary records from the sixth National Assembly (2019–2024), the chapter profiles young parliamentarians, with a focus on the activity of former student activists. By juxtaposing youth priorities with parliamentary responsiveness, it highlights challenges in translating activism into tangible policy outcomes. Ultimately, this research investigates whether increased youth presence in parliament leads to substantive policy changes, addressing the pressing issues facing South African youth in the post-apartheid era.