Devolution increases the amount of power, resources, and responsibility that local authorities have in governing, budgeting, and service provision. Such a redistribution of power has the potential to empower citizens by stimulating greater participation in the political process, more effective provision of public services, and more responsive government. However, persistent inequality and discrimination against marginalized groups, including youth, may have the effect of reinforcing inequitable power structures and further marginalizing these groups within the context of devolution. Barriers to youth participation in local governance include pervasive stereotypes, discrimination, closed and hierarchical political parties, corruption, and lack of government transparency. Integrating youth and other marginalized groups into devolution and local governance programming to address these barriers may create opportunities to help further inclusive democracy and equitable service delivery in support of the objectives under USAID’s DRG Strategy.