<![CDATA[Youth representation in legislative bodies is a crucial aspect of strengthening democracy and enhancing the political participation of the younger generation in Indonesia. However, the low level of formal political representation for this strategic demographic group—as observed in the North Sumatra Regional House of Representatives (DPRD)—indicates the presence of structural, institutional, and regulatory barriers. Exclusive political party recruitment practices tend to limit access for young people who lack political capital and strong networks. This study aims to analyze the legal framework regarding youth representation, identify regulatory obstacles, and examine the strategic role of youth in improving the quality of democracy. A normative-juridical method was employed, utilizing statutory, conceptual, and sociological approaches. Data were gathered through literature reviews and in-depth interviews with members of the DPRD, political parties, the General Elections Commission (KPU), and the Election Supervisory Body (Bawaslu), followed by qualitative analysis. The findings indicate that political recruitment remains hindered by high political costs, the dominance of party elites, and the influence of entrenched socio-political networks. A gap was also identified between the norms guaranteeing equal opportunity and political practices that remain non-inclusive; consequently, existing representation has not yet translated into substantive representation. Therefore, there is a need to strengthen cadre development, reform political recruitment mechanisms, and develop policies that are responsive to the political participation of the younger generation.]]>
