Abstract:
Youth bulge is a common phenomenon in many countries, and in particular, in the developing countries. Although it is apparent that youth bulges, under the right circumstances, have expanded productivity and boosted economic growth, they have also been found in enabling civil war, corruption, violence and democracy collapse, especially where resources are scarce. In Pakistan, high population growth has generated a corresponding increase in the number of young people: at least half the country’s population is aged under 30. Unfortunately, several governments came into power but remained failed in providing youth with opportunities for development which has created frustration in youth and led them towards conflict and violence. With this background, the study aimed to identify the challenges and opportunities associated with youth bulge in Islamabad, Pakistan. This study incorporated the Youth Bulge Theory to adequately map the issues of the youth and ascertaining whether they are as predisposed towards conflict, as literature would suggest. Qualitative research design was employed and data was collected from 41 research participants with the ages between 15 - 29 years through semi-structured interviews. The participants were ranging from students of law, politics, accounting and medicine to those working in the social sector; government employees in education; teachers, researchers, writers and journalists; those working for the UN, artists, doctors, and housewives, as well as those looking for employment. However, the data collected was analyzed via thematic analysis. The results indicate a definite presence of challenges, as well as many grievances that can manifest into greater resentment; yet, within the chosen sample, there were a moderate to low percentage of responses that directly foresaw conflict as the most immediate solution, or even one they were headed towards in the future. Thus, the study rejected the more significant aspect of the Youth Bulge Theory. By implication, the study placed forward some recommendations.
