ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the drivers of South–South youth relations – economic, human capital, and socio-political factors – and proposes a political economy analysis into this subject. Using the African continent as a case study, the chapter argues that the demographic dividend in African countries will have an impact on how citizens interact across borders, who participates, and who benefits from South–South relations. The main concern then, is with how to optimise the potential of young people to contribute to South–South cooperation (SSC) in a continent undergoing demographic, socio-political and economic changes. Adopting a ‘youth-lens’ will ensure that the challenges and opportunities of participating countries are interrogated and interventions are coordinated toward achieving a greater synergy and action by and for the youth. This requires continuous dialogue on the perspectives and strategies for the future and guarantees that the voices of young people contribute to the effective achievement of South–South cooperation while also addressing the imminent unemployment and inequality on the continent.
