Youth Political Representation: Lens to Re-Imagining Constitutional and Institutional Barriers to Inclusive Governance in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Young people constitute the largest demographic group in Zimbabwe, accounting for more than seven million people yet their representation in political and governance institutions remains disproportionately low. This study examines the constitutional and institutional barriers that continue to constrain youth participation in political leadership and decision-making processes in Zimbabwe. Drawing on contemporary debates on political representation, democratic inclusion and youth participation, the research explores the extent to which existing governance structures reflect the demographic realities of the country. A qualitative research approach was employed, utilising key informant interviews, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis to generate data from government officials, youth advocates, legal experts, emerging political leaders and students. The findings reveal that despite recent efforts to promote youth inclusion, including the allocation of parliamentary youth quota seats, structural barriers embedded within constitutional, institutional and political systems continue to limit meaningful youth participation in governance. The study further establishes that age-based eligibility requirements, limited representational opportunities and entrenched political cultures contribute to the continued marginalisation of young people from influential leadership positions. The article argues that reimagining political representation in Zimbabwe requires constitutional and institutional reforms that align governance structures with the country‘s demographic composition. Such reforms should promote inclusive representation, strengthen youth participation in political processes and enhance democratic governance by creating opportunities for young people to contribute meaningfully to national development.