What role do young people have in making change happen?

On the 10th of July 2008 we invited 2000 young people to answer the question "What role do young people have in making change happen?

We had an amazing response and here are a few of the responses.

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• youth

[SupawSimba]

I am only 16 and will have to wait two more years to vote, but majority of people my age, are not interested in receving that oppurtunity when they reach 18. Of course I understand that people change over two years, but I think that if people had stronger role models in politics, or that have some connection to politics it would encourage them more to make change happen.

[wyatthaplo]

I think young people have every role open to them to make change happen its all about giving them the oppourtunity and educating them in how to make the changes that they want to see.

[lostzip12]

listen ppl in a teen just like dem and so far did u know the only way we kould change everything is when the ppl who messed up everything leave aka we clean houwere parents mess

[LeClassics]

Did you not read my last post? There's more debate and airing of opinions than ever before in history, but the end result is filtered down to what the one(s) in charge want. Equivalent to the boss asking staff what they think, then going on and doing whatever he was going to do.

I can't tell you of the number of vocal blogs, websites and (physical) groups setup I've read or met that have amounted to nothing. Discuss and wave your placards all you want... decision's already been made.

[Illuminatedwon]

We don't vote to keep the best party in, we vote to keep the worst party out. An event like this is great for developing ideas and getting people to discuss and debate. I mean we are discussing it now are we not?

[myhalo123]

I agree, although your going to shatter there lil' egos by putting it this way! lol Fact is young people don't have enough life experience yet and any ideas they have are usually emotionally based rather than based in reality and logic. Sorry guys, its the truth! I am an American and of course we're undergoing Obama "change" mania. The most amazing thing is nobody has a clue what "change" he's talking about and if they did Obama would scare the pants off them like he does me."Change" can be bad.

[LeClassics]

Aww, how innocent/naive. You can change the world, your voice can make a difference...of those who believe those pearls of wisdom drummed into you by parents/teachers, 99% will end up disappointed.

Ooh, the vote! Shall I vote for corrupt Party A, or backstabbing Party B? Great choice.

Because of the internet hundreds of millions now have a voice. Sorry guys, but you can debate, discuss, complain and sign all you want - if big business or governments want something, your voice means nothing.