Shift from Traditional to Contemporary Political Patterns: Knowing the Youth Perspectives on Political Participation

Abstract

Youth participation in politics can be an effective way to relieve traditional patterns of political practices in a country like Pakistan. The significant participation of youth has changed the traditional political patterns and has given a new direction in the country. This study examined the youth’s political participation in the democratic practices between two provinces such as Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa within the time frame of the 2013 and 2018 General National elections of Pakistan. The study used the leading theory of the Public Sphere, which indicates that the public sphere is an integral part of democracy. It is a social space in which citizens can engage in political activities pertinent to their public interests. Additionally, the theoretical perspective states that democratic citizens are expected to participate in political affairs under some interests. The research method of this study is qualitative in nature, and the data have been gathered through interviews to support the exploration. This method allows the researcher to gain an in-depth understanding of the issue. The research has introduced a new concept of political participation, which is “Youth Inn.” It indicates that the youth are involved in improving the political discourse to participate in activities and it has changed the traditional ways of politics. It is important to mention here that, in the traditional ways of politics, youth is supposed to follow the directions from elders to decide whom to vote for and support in politics; a selection choice is based on candidate language, culture, ethnicity, sect and caste as the main factors. By resisting the traditional pattern of politics, this change has enhanced the youth’s dynamic role in contributing to the political, social, and various aspects of daily life in the society. They have a unique character, which is relevant to support and contribute to the country’s political structure. Furthermore, the inclusion of youth can serve as an insight for political parties to consider them as the central theme in the party policy of Pakistan.