Pathways into Politics, Workshop with the Humetna Association, 23rd April 2020

Pathways into Politics, Workshop with the Humetna Association, 23^rd April 2020On 23^rd April 2020, Forward Thinking held a video conference with members of the Humetna Association and ‘Pathways into Politics’ participants. This was the third meeting held as part of a ‘mini-series’ of follow up events after an initial Pathways into Politics leadership programme held in February.Pathways into Politics is a programme which is aimed at developing the ambition of young Muslims to engage with politics and their ability to be able to do so. The programme seeks to develop the participants’ leadership and communication skills as well as their political literacy.The Humetna Association is a Tunisian NGO which seeks to bridge the gap between young people in Tunisia and local politicians through a bottom up approach.Representatives from the Humetna Association spoke to the current social and political context in Tunisia. They explained that although the democratic transition meant that Tunisia is often viewed as a ‘success story’ compared to other contexts in the region, political division and economic difficulties remain. These challenges are particularly apparent given the current situation with coronavirus.Discussion took place around the role of civil society, and in particular youth activism, in creating positive change. The Humetna Association were able to offer insights into their experiences of youth involvement in politics in Tunisia, to give advice to the participants on how to participate in public life and to stress the importance of doing so.We are currently exploring opportunities for further video sessions based on the feedback of participants, focusing on the skills which they most want to address.