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A new generation of young Afghans is emerging that is more educated, technologically savvy, more connected with the world, and more hopeful about the future than previous generations. They make up about 68 percent of the Afghan population; a rising powerful political force that is seen beyond simply being symbolic. According to The National Democratic Institute, young Afghans are the reason campaigning via social media and mobile technology has, for the first time in Afghan electoral history, become a critical component of the race. In 2013, there were 2.4 million internet users in the country, up from 2000 during the 2004 elections. The ability of young men and women to communicate through internet, phone, and social media is considered a significant milestone in technological progress that has never been seen before in Afghanistan. Furthermore, Afghanistan’s election commission reported that young people made up 70 percent of provincial council candidates across the country, and for the second round of elections, they are ready and willing to focus more on candidate’s economic plans for Afghanistan’s future rather than voting along ethnic lines.
As the United States leaves Afghanistan, what lessons will young Afghans draw from the last decade and a half, and will they work to improve Afghan democracy and elect more effective and accountable leaders?
Aria,
Digital Engagement Team – USCENTCOM
As the United States leaves Afghanistan, what lessons will young Afghans draw from the last decade and a half, and will they work to improve Afghan democracy and elect more effective and accountable leaders?
Aria,
Digital Engagement Team – USCENTCOM
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