Youth policy debate as an integrated component of youth political participation programs with built-in opportunities for young people to practice their newfound skills during debate competitions and through other program activities. Each country example highlights unique debate program variations based on the country context, the creativity of the youth participants and the political environment.
In collaboration with the Centre for Young Leaders in Africa (CYLA) and Youth4Parliament, NDI gathered young people from political parties and civil society organizations to develop their debate skills and generate discussion on critical issues in Zambia.
In collaboration with a recurring primetime television program hosted by famed political talk show personality Marcel Ghanem, called “Sar el Waqet” (“It’s About Time”), NDI-trained students debate draft laws and discuss them with elected officials.
Jóvenes Liderando Debates is a nine-month program to help politically active young people learn the art of competitive policy debate. The program consisted of policy dialogues, debate training and regional and national debate competitions.
Challenger is a one-year program that offers intensive training and practical exercises to a select group of young professionals. During the program, participants attend a policy debate school, playing the role of “government” and “opposition”.
In Jordan, NDI is partnering with Universities to help young people use democratic methods and community action to become invested in their nation’s future. Through debates, students openly discuss democratic practices and current events.
In Libya, NDI is partnering with the Dialogue and Debate Association (DDA) to implement a high school debate program. DDA’s debate programs, conducted in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, aid students in developing vital skills with the goal of making changes in their communities
In Armenia, NDI’s Debathon youth debate program serves as a platform for non-affiliated Armenian youth to engage in political dialogue and develop their skills in advocating for political needs.