How Political Science Education Can Support Meaningful Contact with Policymakers

• In Event: Political Science Education as Participatory Research & Civic Empowerment

Abstract

Many young people across the world have become engaged in environmental issues and in campaigns and political action to promote action against climate change and degradation of the national environment. However, there is a disturbing gap between youth voice and public policy, so that young people are rarely at the table when decisions on environmental policy are made. This undermines the inclusivity and effectiveness i.e., the sustainability, of public policy. Conversely, turning youth voice into sustainable public policy offers pathways to innovative local solutions that connect environmental issues to other real-world challenges e.g., linking green spaces to mental good health. This paper presents the results of an in-depth investigation of the Mayor of London’s Peer Outreach Team and its work on environmental issues. Drawing upon qualitive research with young Peer Outreach Workers from traditionally marginalized groups and Greater London Authority policy-makers, it shows how, peer research (‘civic mentoring’ supported by political scientists) can empower young people in their interactions with policy-makers, to provide an evidence base for their claims. The paper also emphasizes the need for cultural change amongst policy-makers to adapt to the messy but rewarding process of working with children and young people as partners.

Author

• James Sloam, University of London, Royal Holloway