Young people are, and have been in our history, often at the forefront of movements advocating for democratic change. While many studies show that young people today are disillusioned by institutions that have failed to deliver democratic dividends, some young leaders are taking responsibilities for responsive governance in their hands by crossing over from civic activism to government.

The World Movement for Democracy and NED President Damon Wilson hosted a Facebook Live discussion with Magdalena Vucina (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Timur Vilic (Bosnia and Herzegovina) and Jose Ramos-Horta (Timor Leste) to explore practical ways to open the political space for reform-minded leaders and emerging voices. The guided conversation between the two generations identified specific tools and skills necessary to navigate the crossover experience.