A new survey has found that 93 percent of Ghanaian youth are concerned that armed groups could cross into the country and threaten its stability, highlighting growing anxiety over regional security risks despite rising optimism about Ghana’s future.

The survey by the Ichikowitz Family Foundation examined young people’s views on governance, security, economic conditions and international relations.

It found that 91 percent of respondents were worried about illegal immigration and human trafficking, reflecting concerns over cross-border criminal activities in a region facing growing security challenges.

Despite the security concerns, the survey showed a significant improvement in young Ghanaians’ confidence in the country’s direction.

Seventy-two percent of respondents said Ghana was moving in the right direction, a sharp rise from 21 percent recorded in the previous survey in 2024.

The same proportion expressed confidence in the country’s economic direction, compared with about 24 percent in 2024.

The survey also found that 73 percent of young Ghanaians were optimistic about the country’s future, compared with 26 percent in the earlier poll.

While Ghana continues to enjoy a reputation as one of West Africa’s most stable democracies, security remains a major concern among young people.

About 90 percent of respondents said they feel safe living in Ghana, placing the country among the highest-ranked African nations for personal security confidence.

The survey showed that 79 percent of young Ghanaians believe they are safer today than they were in 2023, while eight in 10 respondents said they believe they are treated fairly and respectfully by the police and other security agencies.

The findings also showed growing confidence among Ghanaian youth in their ability to influence national decisions.

About 85 percent of respondents said they believe their voices matter to political leaders, while 94 percent said young people have the ability to shape political decisions affecting their lives within the next five years.

The survey found strong support for increased female representation in government, with about eight in 10 respondents saying Ghana would be better governed with more women in senior leadership positions.

However, it also revealed frustration with the pace of governance, with 60 percent saying they would prefer a government that delivers results quickly, even if some democratic processes are bypassed.

Concerns over employment opportunities among young Ghanaians have declined, with 26 percent identifying jobs as a major concern compared with 60 percent in 2024.

The survey also found that 60 percent of respondents believe Africa is moving in the right direction, while many recognised the influence of major global powers including the United States and China.

Among respondents who acknowledged US influence, 86 percent viewed it positively, while 80 percent had a favourable perception of China’s influence.

Overall, the survey paints a picture of a Ghanaian youth population that is increasingly hopeful about the country’s direction but remains concerned about security threats, economic opportunities and the effectiveness of governance institutions.