Youth Engagement in Post-Disaster Recovery: Bridging Gaps in Governance and Economic Revitalization

Youth are increasingly recognized as critical actors in post-disaster recovery, contributing to resilience-building, economic revitalization, and sustainable development. However, the extent and effectiveness of their engagement are profoundly shaped by governance structures, institutional support, and social capital. This paper offers a comparative analysis of youth engagement in post-disaster recovery in Libya and Morocco—two North African countries with distinct governance contexts and recent disaster events. Drawing on social capital and institutional theory, the study examines how youth navigate formal and informal systems to participate in recovery efforts, particularly in politically fragile or semi-authoritarian settings. The Moroccan case highlights the enabling role of structured civil society and inclusive policy frameworks, while the Libyan context reveals the challenges of grassroots mobilization amid political fragmentation. Through a qualitative case study approach, the paper explores how youth-led initiatives, from volunteering to entrepreneurship, bridge gaps in governance and catalyse long-term economic and community resilience. The findings underscore the need for policy interventions that integrate youth as partners in recovery, not only to enhance effectiveness but also to foster sustainable, inclusive futures in disaster-prone regions.