Youth Rights & Democracy
Empowering Youth for a Stronger Democracy
What does it mean to be a citizen?
What does it take to be a public leader?
How do rights get violated, and what can we do when this happens?
Which rights can we demand, and what must we uphold as ethical responsibilities?
These are the pressing questions that define the relationship between youth and democracy—questions that young people must engage with to create a just and equitable society.
Why Youth Rights Matter
In India, youth are often viewed through two contrasting lenses—either as the torchbearers of the future or as immature and incapable of decision-making. However, there is little recognition of youth rights as distinct from child, women’s, or minority rights.
At Samvada, we believe in the right of young people to lead independent, dignified lives, free from economic, social, and cultural disadvantages. Through our work, we support youth in asserting their rights, demanding fair opportunities, and taking active roles in governance.
Key Youth Rights We Campaign For
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The right to education and employment
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The right to participate in democracy and governance
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Freedom to make life choices, including career and marriage
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Bodily autonomy and protection from abuse and violence
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Access to nutrition and healthcare during youth
For instance, our Youth Resource Centres have championed campaigns such as:
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The Right to Education Before Marriage – Addressing the societal pressure on young women to leave education for marriage.
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Sensitive Career Guidance – Ensuring young people receive non-discriminatory, inclusive support in their career decisions.
Our Work on Youth Rights & Democracy
Creating Young Leaders
We believe in the power of young people to lead and inspire change. Through our intensive courses and reflective workshops, we identify passionate youth who display conviction and leadership potential. These young leaders go on to mobilize their peers, advocate for their rights, and create positive change in their communities.
Youth Rights Advocacy
Samvada actively campaigns for youth rights through public dialogues, policy engagement, and advocacy efforts. In 2010, we organized a Youth Parliament, bringing young people, human rights advocates, and policymakers together to discuss youth rights. This led to the creation of the Charter of Youth Rights, rooted in constitutional principles and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
As India’s youth make up the largest portion of its democracy, we believe that empowering them with knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills is essential for a just and inclusive future. At Samvada, we help young people recognize their rights, claim their space in democracy, and step forward as ethical leaders of tomorrow.
I am happy that my nation considers animals sacred, but why not its youth? The beauty of Indian democracy lies in its diversity, yet it feels incomplete without youth rights. Every young person, in India and across the world, should have the opportunity to grow and learn without barriers. We are not just the future of this country; we are its present and its driving force.