Abstract:
The Maldives is in the midst of a demographic window of opportunity, with a large share
of the popular on comprised of children and young adults. Youth account for about 40 per
cent of the Maldivian popular on, and the dependency ratio has shown declines in the most
recent national census. The country’s success in reaping the demographic dividends of this
‘youth boom’, in terms of social and economic development, is arguably reflected in the level
of positive youth engagement in the community. However, there is a growing concern that
Maldivian youth feel, and are perceived to be, socially and economically disenfranchised
and idle. Based on an ongoing qualitative research study on everyday changes and everyday
lives in Maldivian communities, this paper discusses the high level of youth engagement
in community development and livelihood activities in a small island community. Various
qualitative research methods including interviews and observations were used in the research.
The significance of factors such as parenting, role models in the community, community size,
schooling, mentors, family structure and responsibilities, level of development of the island
and types of economic opportunities available, which may contribute to higher levels of youth
engagement, are explored.
