ParlAmericas works in partnership with member parliaments and other organizations to prepare the next generation of emerging leaders for political service. These efforts focus on good governance and social inclusion and encompass the following:
Youth Leadership and Capacity-Building
ParlAmericas co-implements activities that empower young people to develop their leadership and analytical skills, as well as their understanding and direct experience with parliamentary processes.
- Young Women in Leadership (YWiL): This program, implemented with Caribbean Women in Leadership (CIWiL) and various Caribbean parliaments, nurtures young women’s interest in politics and public leadership. It includes practical training on gender equality and inclusive decision-making, networking opportunities and exposure to parliamentary procedures. The experience concludes with a simulated parliamentary sitting during which participants deliberate on a legislative motion.
- Youth Legislative Impact (Impacto Legislativo Joven, ILJ): Delivered in partnership with Latin American parliaments and Forums of Women in Political Parties, the ILJ program offers training for youth with an emphasis on civic engagement. While the specifics of ILJ vary per country, it is built around sessions on parliamentary processes and inclusive leadership techniques. The program culminates with participants collaboratively developing a document – such as a draft bill or a set of committee recommendations – that is presented to the host legislature for action.
Technical Assistance for Youth Programming in Parliaments
ParlAmericas offers technical support that complements and enhances existing parliamentary youth engagement initiatives, such as Youth Parliaments. Our expertise helps parliaments integrate themes related to inclusion and equality into their programs, enriching young participants’ understanding of these topics critical to democracy.
👉 Access our guidance document: Promoting Inclusion and Equality through Parliamentary Youth Programming.
Nationally-Tailored Children’s Books
Recognizing the importance of inspiring leadership from a young age – especially among girls who face gender-specific barriers – ParlAmericas collaborates with member parliaments and civil society partners to publish children’s books that parliamentarians can use in their constituent outreach activities. These books and their complementary learning guides serve as tools to connect with young people about what it means to serve their community.
The books, also available in multiple Indigenous languages, promote teamwork, respect, equality, responsibility, and environmental care. Their storylines build knowledge of political engagement and how parliaments function in a way that is accessible for children.
👉 Visit the Children’s Books hub on our website.
