Work

Enough of Youth Washing: Paving the Way for a Rejuvenated Democracy of the Symbiocene Future

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: As climate crises intensify, youth inclusion in climate governance becomes increasingly important, for their presence could help mitigate the structural restraints of conventional democracies, which inherently incentivise short-term policies. This dispatch reflects what is happening on the ground and examines youth participation in climate governance, comparing three key youth inclusion models: quota-based (Rwanda), consultative (Finland), and donor-supported (Pakistan). The analysis employs a triangulated analytical framework combining Structural Injustice, Participation Ladders, and Intergenerational Justice Theories. Cross-case analysis demonstrates that all models provide partial but insufficient pathways toward intergenerational accountability and ecological sustainability. The research outlines a Youth Quotas Climate Democracy Framework combining youth quotas with safeguards for autonomy, intergenerational youth councils, and democratic innovations to systemically reconfigure democracy toward more inclusive climate governance for future generations.

Source: Democratic Theory

DOI: 10.1017/s2332889426000217

Author: Sukthawee Suwannachairop

Institution: University of Helsinki

Language: English

Topic: Political Theory and Democracy

Subfield: Political Science and International Relations

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Climate action, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,550