Introduction
In the landscape of national security, Ghana stands as a beacon of stability in West Africa. As the nation progresses into the 21st century, a new generation emerges – Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2010. This cohort, constituting approximately over 32% of Ghana’s population, is shaped by digital interconnectedness and rapid socio-political changes, holding the key to Ghana’s future security. Gen Z confronts socio-economic disparities and systemic inequalities that undermine social cohesion and political stability. Despite strides in economic development, youth unemployment remains a pressing concern, with Gen Z bearing the brunt of joblessness and underemployment. This economic disenfranchisement, coupled with the pervasive influence of social media and online echo chambers, creates fertile ground for discontent, radicalisation, and civil unrest.
Yet, within these challenges lies the promise of opportunity and resilience. Gen Z embodies a generation imbued with creativity, innovation, and a fervent desire to effect positive change in their communities and beyond. Their digital savvy, coupled with their innate sense of social justice and global awareness, positions them as catalysts for progress and agents of transformation in Ghana’s socio-political landscape.
Understanding their dynamics, aspirations, and vulnerabilities is paramount in safeguarding Ghana’s sovereignty. In this article, we delve into the intricate relationship between Gen Z and national security in Ghana, exploring the multifaceted dimensions of their impact, aspirations, and vulnerabilities. By understanding the dynamics of this generation and addressing their needs, Ghana can harness the demographic dividend offered by Gen Z to fortify its security architecture, foster inclusive development, and chart a course towards a future defined by peace, prosperity, and resilience. As Ghana embarks on this journey, it must recognise the pivotal role of Gen Z in shaping its destiny and embrace the imperative of empowering and safeguarding this generation as custodians of Ghana’s national security and collective well-being.
Understanding Gen Z
Generation Z is known for being more individualistic, internationally oriented, open-minded, and technologically proficient. Forbes Magazine polled 49,000 people across North and South America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East about Generation Z. Based on the poll results, Generation Z is the first truly worldwide generation. They have grown up in an uncertain and complex environment that molds their perspectives on work, learning and the world, therefore technology and information systems are inextricably linked to their life. They have different job expectations, with a career-oriented perspective. They are a forward-thinking, technically proficient generation with strong language abilities. As a result, they make exceptional employees.
According to United Nations figures, Generation Z’s worldwide population is expected to reach roughly 2.6 billion in 2020, accounting for approximately 32% of the entire world population. In the future years, Generation Z is expected to become the world’s largest age group. Generation Z’s population differs per area. According to a Statista research, there will be around 68.6 million Generation Z people in the United States in 2022, and they are predicted to become the largest demographic by 2026. According to Eurostat, Generation Z will number approximately 175 million individuals in Europe by 2021. In Asia, Generation Z is also a big demographic. According to a Deloitte report, China had the world’s largest Generation Z population in 2020, with 385 million people, or around 27% of the overall population. According to Statista, Generation Z is a sizable demographic in India, with an anticipated population of 472 million by 2021. Generation Z, as the world’s largest demographic group and a rapidly rising part of society, has a substantial impact on current and future global culture, politics, and the economy. Today, Gen Z is the dominant consumer in areas such as food, fashion, entertainment, and technology.
According to Statista, in Ghana, the number of Gen Z added up to nearly 6.5 million in 2023, which represented an increase of around 158 thousand people from the previous year. Overall, the number of people in this age group has increased since 2010. In Accra, the capital of Ghana, over 56% of the city’s entire population is under the age of 24, making the population of the city one of the youngest worldwide and is projected to remain so for a long time.
Over 60% of Gen Z in urban areas have access to the internet, with smartphone penetration reaching 75% among this demographic. Social media platforms, such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, are integral parts of their daily lives, with approximately 90% of Gen Z in Ghana using these platforms regularly. This tech-savvy generation is characterized by a penchant for innovation, activism, and global awareness.
Challenges to National Security
According to a United Nations assessment released in the spring, over 25,000 foreign fighters have been radicalized online and travelled to Iraq and Syria to join the Islamic State. One remarkable example of this challenge occurred in Ghana when an increase in reported cybercrime cases involving Generation Z individuals highlighted their sensitivity to extreme ideas. Among these cases was a group of ten Muslim youths, including one named Nazir Nortei Alema, a Kwame Nkrumah University graduate who had done his national service at the Ghana Statistical Service. These young people, united by their strong views, found comfort and support in an online WhatsApp group called “Sadaqa Train.” Within this online feedback space, they shared and discussed extremist views of Islam, eventually falling to the temptation of radicalism. In 2015, spurred by the rhetoric of their online community, these individuals made the catastrophic decision to flee their home country and go to Iraq and Syria to join the forces of the Islamic State. Their departure sent shockwaves across Ghanaian society, demonstrating the power of online platforms in changing the opinions and behaviours of impressionable young people.
Economic disparities and unemployment rates, with Gene Z accounting for over 40% of Ghana’s unemployed population, breed discontent and potentially fuel civil unrest and extremism. For instance, UNDP conducted a study involving 1,400 respondents in the five regions up north of Ghana (which is said to have the highest number of youth unemployment) to assess specific vulnerabilities of individuals, groups, and communities to being radicalized towards eventual violent extremism. The analysis revealed that unemployment is the most common driver of violent extremism among the youth.
Moreover, studies have indicated that a significant number of Gen Z individuals in Ghana experience symptoms of anxiety or depression related to online harassment, cyberbullying and digital overload.
Empowering Gen Z for National Security
Harnessing the potential of Gen Z is pivotal in fortifying Ghana’s national security architecture. Education plays a central role in empowering this generation with critical thinking skills, digital literacy, and civic awareness. Despite progress, approximately 20% of Gen Z aged 15-24 are out of school, hindering their access to critical skills and knowledge for navigating the digital landscape. Integrating cybersecurity and digital hygiene into the curriculum equips Gen Z with the tools to navigate the digital realm responsibly.
One of the Ghanaians recruited into ISIS referred to Ghana as a “corrupt democratic state” in a WhatsApp message to his family. This statement underscores the perception of systemic corruption within the country’s democratic institutions. Such perceptions can fuel disillusionment and discontent among the youth, potentially making them more vulnerable to extremist ideologies. However, fostering dialogue and inclusivity can help address these grievances and ensure that the voices of Generation Z are heard in policy formulation and implementation. By engaging youth through programs, forums, and mentorship initiatives, Ghana can bridge the gap between generations, fostering a sense of belonging and ownership in national affairs. Empowering youth-led initiatives and entrepreneurship further cultivates innovation and economic resilience, steering Generation Z away from radical ideologies and criminal activities. By addressing the root causes of discontent, Ghana can build a more inclusive and resilient society, thereby mitigating the risks posed by extremism.
Conclusion
As Ghana advances technologically, safeguarding Gen Z from emerging threats is paramount. Strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure, enhancing data protection laws, and promoting digital literacy campaigns mitigate risks posed by cyber threats. Law enforcement agencies must adapt to the evolving landscape, employing digital forensic capabilities and proactive intelligence gathering to combat cybercrimes and radicalism effectively. Moreover, promoting mental health awareness and resilience-building programs address the psychological toll of online harassment, cyberbullying, and digital addiction among Gen Z. Providing accessible mental health services and creating safe spaces for expression fosters a supportive environment for their holistic development. Gen Z embodies Ghana’s future, holding immense potential in shaping the nation’s trajectory towards prosperity and security. By understanding their dynamics and addressing their needs, Ghana can harness the demographic dividend offered by this generation. Empowering Gene Z with education, opportunities, and support not only strengthens national security but also fosters a resilient and inclusive society. As Ghana marches forward, let’s ensure that Gen Z stands as guardians of peace, progress, and prosperity in the digital age.
