Background of The African Youth Charter

In July 2006, the African Union Head of States and Governments meeting in Banjul, Gambia, endorsed the African Youth Charter (AYC). The Charter is a political and legal document which serves as the strategic framework that gives direction for youth empowerment and development at continental, regional and national levels.

Aim of the African Youth Charter

The African Youth Charter aims to strengthen, reinforce and consolidate efforts to empower young people through meaningful youth participation and equal partnership in driving Africa’s development agenda.

The African Youth Charter offers an avenue for operative youth involvement in the development process. It describes youth as people between the ages of 15-35 years.

It addresses key issues affecting youth, including employment, sustainable livelihoods, education, skills development, health, youth participation, national youth policy, peace and security, law enforcement, youth in diaspora and youth with disabilities.

It was established after a research was conducted on the state of the African Youth, commissioned by the African Union Commission.

The document refers to the rights, freedoms and duties of young people in Africa.

Ratifications:

As of 15th March, 2016.

1. 42 Member States had signed the Charter.

2. 38 Member States had ratified the Charter.

3. 3 Member States were yet to sign and ratify.

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