The Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD) has officially launched its Democracy School for Youth Wings of Political Parties, a capacity building programme designed to strengthen youth leadership, promote democratic values, and enhance inclusive political participation across Liberia.
From 23 to 27 March 2026, the first cohort comprising 24 young leaders from more than a dozen political parties, completed a weeklong intensive training in Gbarnga, Bong County.
The programme equipped participants with knowledge and practical skills in constitutional democracy, civic engagement, ethical leadership, youth and gender in politics, and digital political participation.
In his opening remarks, Oscar Bloh, NIMD Liberia Country Director, called for ethical, inclusive, and transformative youth participation stressing that the initiative aims to transform political culture, not reinforce existing practices.
“This Democracy School is designed to help you rethink leadership, internalize the lessons and apply them to build a political culture rooted in ethics, inclusion, and accountability,” said Oscar Bloh.
Cllr. Bloh encouraged participants to champion internal reforms within their parties and embrace collaborative approaches to addressing Liberia’s shared challenges, as steps forward for inclusive democracy in Liberia.
Luther Jeke, Chief Executive Officer of iCampus, urged participants to move beyond symbolic involvement. “Shift your mindset from merely being present to actively shaping decisions,” he encouraged.
Cllr. Jallah Barbu, Executive Director of the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court, reminded participants of their role as change makers.
“Young people have enormous potential to drive democratic development. Liberia needs your voice, energy, and ideass” noted Cllr. Barbu.
Eddie Jarwolo, Executive Director of Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, called for a coordinated youth agenda organized around a clear national youth agenda.
“Prioritize strengthening institutions and shaping policies rather than personalities,” Jawolo urged
Participants Commit to Transformative Action
Participants expressed deep appreciation for the programme and reaffirmed their commitment to applying the knowledge gained.
One participant noted “This training reshaped my political understanding. It strengthened my commitment to advancing democratic transformation.”
Others emphasized the importance of initiating reforms at the community level, noting that impactful leadership does not depend solely on holding public office.
The cohort concluded the training with commitments to:
- Promoting youth inclusion within their political parties
- Strengthening intra and interparty dialogue
- Advocating for structural and policy reforms, and
- Fostering peaceful and constructive political engagement
A Platform for Stronger Youth Leadership and Inclusive Politics
The Democracy School provides a dynamic learning platform that fosters inclusive decisionmaking and strengthens the capacity of young political actors to contribute meaningfully to national governance.
Through expert-led presentations, peer learning, and collaborative exercises, participants developed practical action plans to enhance youth engagement within their political parties and promote policy-driven leadership.
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The Democracy School forms part of NIMD Liberia’s broader efforts to advance inclusive political participation and democratic governance.
It is implemented under the Liberia Electoral Support Project, managed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with UN Women and NIMD, with support from the European Union, Ireland, and Sweden.
