Young people's citizenship activity and perceptions of democracy status in Central-Eastern Europe

Abstract

This chapter describes the democratic experiences and aspirations of Eastern and Central European countries in the context of young adults’ citizenship activity. Based on data collected from 3374 females (57%) and males in the early adulthood developmental period (age 18–27), we addressed three research questions: (1) Do young people observe changes in the status of democracy in their countries and to what extent? (2) To what extent are young people engaged in civic activities? (3) Are young people’s perceptions of democracy status associated with their citizenship activity? Comparisons between three groups of Eastern European countries with different traditions and history of democracy and citizenship are presented: (1) Visegrad countries that are post-soviet satellites and currently European Union (EU) members, (2) Baltic countries that are post-soviet republics, and currently EU members and (3) Black Sea countries that were post-soviet republics under Russian influence and are now independent. The results indicated that young citizens’ perceptions of democracy status in Central-Eastern European countries are consistent with the findings of international reports. The Baltic states appear to be the most stable democracies among countries that depended on the Soviet Union in the 20th century. Many young people in these countries have active citizenship profiles, with a predominance of activists and protesting patriots. Young people are relatively optimistic about the status of democracy in the Black Sea countries and want to be involved in politics and personal development that increases their economic independence. The Visegrad states appear to be in the most difficult situation where young people are aware of the processes of democracy decline, but unwilling to accept them. They are disillusioned with politics and more inclined to act for change through protests than conventional political activity.