AUTHOR=Chigudu Daniel 

TITLE=Youth at the crossroads: balancing contributions to conflict and peace amid high unemployment in Africa

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Political Science

VOLUME=Volume 7 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/political-science/articles/10.3389/fpos.2025.1599788

DOI=10.3389/fpos.2025.1599788

ISSN=2673-3145

ABSTRACT=Over 60% of young people in Africa are unemployed, creating a serious youth unemployment issue that exacerbates instability and limits peacebuilding chances. The variables that either encourage youth to use violence or allow them to make positive contributions to society are the primary purpose of this study, which examines the dual role of unemployed youth as agents of peace and conflict. The research uses a content analysis technique that includes case studies and policy analysis to identify the main factors contributing to youth involvement in conflict, including social exclusion, political marginalization, and economic deprivation. On the other hand, youngsters are empowered as peacebuilders through focused peacebuilding initiatives, inclusive governance, and access to high-quality employment. The findings highlight the necessity of comprehensive measures addressing systemic injustices, encouraging respectable employment, and engaging youth in politics. Policymakers may turn this demographic dilemma into a chance for long-term peace and development by utilizing the potential of Africa's youth through calculated investments in inclusion, work, and education.