With over 44 percent of new voters between the ages of 18 and 35, Pakistan’s youth will play an important role in the upcoming elections and influence the future of the country’s democracy. To harness the power of Pakistan’s youth, a recent UNDP Human Development Report argues for a national focus on youth empowerment through education, employment, and meaningful engagement. According to the report, youth will prove to be a dividend or a serious challenge to the country, depending on how Pakistan invests in their development. To positively impact that policy, youth must be empowered and engaged.

Speakers:Sahar Khan Visiting Research Fellow, CATO Institute

Dr. Adil Najam Dean, Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies, Boston University

Pir Zubair ShahFreelance Journalist

Jumaina Siddiqui, ModeratorSenior Program Officer, Asia Center, U.S. Institute of Peace