Solutions that work: evidence symposium on adolescents and youth in MENA

Adolescence offers three windows of opportunity: firstly, it’s a period which sees unique biological, endocrinal, neurological and psychological changes in the individual; secondly, it’s an opportunity to ‘catch up’ and redress earlier life vulnerabilities; and lastly, it’s an opportunity to influence inter and intra generational life outcomes – including those of the subsequent generation, of whom today’s adolescents will be the parents.

The MENA region is experiencing significant demographic changes, producing a historic window of opportunity to reap a demographic dividend that results from an increasing ratio of working age population compared to dependent population (i.e. children and elderly). This can create greater national wealth, which can spur consumption, production and investment.