Online published on 23 July, 2015.
This article analyses demographic factors particularly the population age structure in the political equation of nation-states. A large population of young adults creates social instability, particularly if employment opportunities are inadequate. In reaction to this threat, concerned states tend to become more authoritarian. Conversely, the decrease of the “youth bulge” favours stability and prosperity, thereby increasing the opportunity for liberal democracy. Examples are provided in contexts as diverse as the Congo, Palestine, Rwanda and Venezuela. The statistics are especially revealing if the relative cohort size comparison method is used. At the end, some policies and programmes are suggested for mitigating “excessive youth bulges”.
