"Politics is not only for old people"
Tuesday, May 4, 2010 at 10:03AM Carlos Abdullah suggested a Singapore Youth Parliament to get youths more involved in the politics and policies that affect them.
So if politics is necessary and youth do not necessarily want to involve themselves with partisan politics, what alternative do we have? I propose that we convene the “Singapore Youth Parliament”. This parliament will not have any real power, but it can be powerful to influence decision. The parliament will also act as a tool for education of the democratic tradition. Youth will be able to voice their opinion in this parliament.
In my opinion, youth groups of various ideological leanings and individuals can and should be allowed to participate in the political process. Membership should be open to all, between the ages of 13 to 35 years old. Politics is not only for old people.
I think this is a great idea. Some will say this is merely a show since it does not have any real power, but a Youth Parliament can act as an interest group representing a significant demographic. It also allows individuals to argue their cases and force scrutiny onto ideas that could help the country.
And since leadership renewal is always a concern for any political party, and by extension, any country, exposing our youths to an environment such as this one will reinforce their sense of responsibility as citizens, and to remain actively engaged in political and civic discussion.
The easy way out would be to restrict members to youth groups, rather than via open elections for representation. If the members are elected, it would give the Youth Parliament the credibility it needs. Such a system could benefit Singapore for generations.
Which, cynically, is also why this would never become reality until the current political landscape is changed dramatically.
Reader Comments (2)
I more afraid that they will go for students in elite school rather than those from the neighbourhood. You get what I mean?
That is why an open election for those seats is essential for it to succeed. It will be better if you strip away all references to your background if you run, but I'm not holding my breath on that idea. Or the idea of a Singapore Youth Parliament for that matter.