Methodology

The development of the Global Youth Participation Index involved a rigorous, evidence-based process to ensure comprehensive and reliable data. 

Initially, 15 countries were selected for a pilot phase based on their regional diversity, socio-economic development, and democratic status. Country-specific consultants collected new data in areas with limited information, combining this with existing databases to enhance the scope of the project.

The detailed GYPI Methodology and Data Collection Process outlines the data collection process behind the Index, the inclusion criteria, and how scores are calculated across 141 countries using 41 distinct variables. These variables span four critical dimensions of youth participation:

• Socio-Economic
• Civic Space
• Political Affairs
• Elections

Built on data from global surveys and institutional sources – such as the Afrobarometer, Freedom House, V-Dem, World Values Survey and others – the GYPI avoids relying on a single survey and instead integrates a diverse set of large-N and macro-level indicators. Where gaps existed, a network of 66 country experts provided verified national data to ensure coverage across underrepresented regions.

To find out more, read the report which includes:

• A transparent breakdown of all data sources and the conversion of diverse indicators into a common 0–100 scale;
• Explanation of the rigorous 85% variable availability threshold to ensure data integrity;
• Clarification on the decision not to weight variables, leaving room for researchers to adapt the Index to different analytical frameworks;
• Discussion of limitations, including missing data points and structural barriers to youth engagement;
• An invitation for practitioners, researchers, and advocates to download the dataset and build upon the GYPI for their own purposes.

Explore the data. Understand the barriers. Amplify youth participation.