Youth unemployment and its implications for peace and security in Ghana: A policy perspective

Unemployment among young people remains one of Ghana’s most pressing socio-economic challenges, with profound implications for national peace and security. Despite numerous government-initiated programmes aimed at expanding employment opportunities, a significant proportion of Ghana’s youth remain unemployed or underemployed. This study examines the relationship between youth unemployment and security risks, as well as the potential of youth employment as a peace-building strategy. Grounded in a qualitative research approach, the study relies on secondary data sources, including empirical studies, policy documents, and reports from national institutions and international organizations. One of the key findings reveals a strong link between high youth unemployment rates and rising incidences of political violence, cybercrime, vigilantism, and intra-community conflicts. Regional disparities, particularly in northern Ghana and urban centres such as Accra and Kumasi, further exacerbate the problem. An assessment of existing job-creation initiatives, such as the Nation Builders Corps (NABCO) and the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), highlights shortcomings related to sustainability, inclusivity, and policy coordination. The study concludes that addressing youth unemployment is not only an economic imperative but also a vital peace-building strategy. It recommends a comprehensive, integrated, and participatory approach that prioritizes youth involvement, entrepreneurship development, and the integration of civic and conflict education into labour and employment policies. If effectively implemented, these measures have the potential to reduce vulnerabilities among Ghana’s youth and contribute significantly to national stability and sustainable development. Key words: Youth, unemployment, peace, security.