Shaping a New Research Agenda: Understanding Power, History and Policy Dynamics: A Political Economy Analysis of Youth Employment in South Africa.
Youth employment remains one of South Africa’s most urgent and complex challenges. Despite the development of numerous policies and initiatives, millions of young people continue to face limited access to sustainable and meaningful employment. Deep-rooted historical, political, and institutional barriers persist, shaping how opportunities are created, distributed, and experienced.
In response to these challenges, a new research study titled Understanding Power, History and Policy Dynamics: A Political Economy Analysis of Youth Employment in South Africa is being launched. The study forms part of a broader eight-country initiative led in partnership with the African Institute for Policy Development (Afidep, Kenya), with the South African component being conducted by the HSRC.
This research aims to move beyond traditional economic approaches by applying a Political Economy Analysis (PEA) lens to uncover the structural dynamics and power relations that have historically shaped South Africa’s economy and continue to influence youth employment outcomes today.
You are invited to participate in a consultative dialogue to share insights that will inform and strengthen the study. This engagement seeks to ensure that the research is grounded in the lived realities and expertise of stakeholders across academia, policy, civil society, and youth development. Your contribution will be valuable in:
- Identifying key historical, political, spatial, and institutional factors influencing South Africa’s economic structure and their implications for youth unemployment;
- Examining contemporary issues—such as spatial inequalities, the challenges facing small businesses in markets dominated by large players, and the role of public employment;
- Highlighting knowledge gaps and policy blind spots;
- Refining the study’s focus areas and guiding questions; and
- Supporting a research process that is inclusive, responsive, and relevant.
We are particularly committed to ensuring that the perspectives of young people and their advocates are incorporated from the outset, guiding a research agenda that is both participatory and impactful.
Event Date: 05 February 2026
Event Time: 14:00–16:00
Venue: Gauteng, TBC
Event Type: Physical
Contact: Adam Cooper acooper@hsrc.ac.za