The topic of human agency is currently at the top of the agenda of scholars interested in local and regional development dynamics. This still new, yet well-developed, literature has tended to privilege the study of participation in decision-making processes over non-participation. This article aims to discuss the need for a more systematic integration of a clear ‘denied agency’ such as youth in local and regional development studies. Starting from the consideration of their under-representation in academic work, as well as in policy debates, we argue that scholars should focus on the largely neglected younger generations and their aspirations to provide politicians and policymakers with useful findings and clear guidance on possible alternative and desirable futures.