This report focusses on how Public-Private Dialogue (PPD) can be inclusive of youth and the benefits that can come from this approach. For policymakers and governments this includes more relevant, informed and effective policy design, better decision making, improved planning, management and implementation of new policies, improved trust with key stakeholders and the ability to tap into innovative thinking. For young people this includes improved social capital, the ability to drive change in the areas they care about and can include economic benefits.
The report also explores how youth are represented in PPDs and the how policymakers can best support youth-focused associations so they can effectively engage in PPDs, to influence the development and implementation of Business Environment Reforms (BER) that advance youth economic empowerment across African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries.
Young people and the associations that represent them, are often excluded from PPDs, primarily because these dialogues traditionally prioritise established, largescale businesses and government representatives due to their perceived influence and power. Social and cultural norms relating to young people’s role within society can also inhibit their inclusion and active participation. The recommendations in this report give practical and implementable suggestions about how PPD platforms and processes can be made as inclusive as possible and how the ICR Facility can provide technical assistance to facilitate this.