Youth Political Participation Research Articles

Youth political participation and digital movement in Indonesia: the case of #ReformasiDikorupsi and #TolakOmnibusLaw

The younger generations have always been at the forefront of and contributed significantly to social movements that are critical of state policies or respond to socio-political situations. This is also what happened in large movements involving young people in Indonesia, conventionally in the form of demonstrations and digital movements. This study seeks to explore the relationship between youth political participation, digital media, and the development of youth political identity by analyzing young people’s engagement in some of the most significant political protests in Indonesia during the mass protests of #ReformasiDikorupsi, a movement opposing the amendments of several important bills, and #TolakOmnibusLaw, a movement opposing the establishment of a new single bill related to labor and investment, between 2019 and 2020. By analyzing quantitative data through data mining from Twitter from October 2019 to November 2020 with the social network analysis method, this study discusses online youth participation in social movements and the way they shape their political identity. Our research found that young people play an active and central role in building online and offline movements. In particular, the online movement contributes to the growth of the offline protest movement, and vice versa, because of concerns about the practice of illiberal democracy.

Youth political participation and digital movement in Indonesia: the case of #ReformasiDikorupsi and #TolakOmnibusLaw

The younger generations have always been at the forefront of and contributed significantly to social movements that are critical of state policies or respond to socio-political situations. This is also what happened in large movements involving young people in Indonesia, conventionally in the form of demonstrations and digital movements. This study seeks to explore the relationship between youth political participation, digital media, and the development of youth political identity by analyzing young people’s engagement in some of the most significant political protests in Indonesia during the mass protests of #ReformasiDikorupsi, a movement opposing the amendments of several important bills, and #TolakOmnibusLaw, a movement opposing the establishment of a new single bill related to labor and investment, between 2019 and 2020. By analyzing quantitative data through data mining from Twitter from October 2019 to November 2020 with the social network analysis method, this study discusses online youth participation in social movements and the way they shape their political identity. Our research found that young people play an active and central role in building online and offline movements. In particular, the online movement contributes to the growth of the offline protest movement, and vice versa, because of concerns about the practice of illiberal democracy.

Spaces of youth politics and the Arab uprisings: environmental activism and the Algerian Hirak

ABSTRACT The two waves of uprisings in the Arab world in 2011, then 2019, have brought profound changes. In the second wave, including Iraq, Lebanon and Sudan, the Algerian hirak of 2019 constituted a massive political and social movement, bringing a new president and government, and affecting the popular consciousness that change was now possible. While participation in formal politics remains low, new spaces of participation have emerged. Environmental activism in the public space, as well as deeper challenges to extractivist development ideology, have inspired new practices of youth politics. From the disruption of the hirak to subsequent active citizenship, Algerians have proposed alternative development models. Drawing on findings from a participatory research project working with a network of Algerian youth researchers, and interviews with Algerian young people, associations and entrepreneurs, it is argued that the practices of the hirak have consolidated and amplified the everyday activism of Algerian civil society. Organizing environmental protests and action, Algerian youth have created new political spaces and inspired deeper reflections about the future of their country. These findings offer new insights into the longer term impacts of the Arab uprisings and of environmental activism, on spaces of youth political participation.

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

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.

The Impacts of Undi 18 on Political Participation, Awareness and Readiness

The implementation of Undi18 on December 15, 2021, added an estimated 5.8 million new voters aged 18 and older to Malaysia's political landscape. While some see this as a timely move to introduce young people to civic responsibility and encourage active participation, others argue that 18-year-olds are too immature and have low awareness with only 29.03% of the youth participating in the political socialization domain. Consequently, it is crucial to assess the level of awareness and readiness among young people and their readiness to actively engage as voters. This study aimed to assess the level of youth awareness and readiness towards Undi18, examine the extent of their political participation, and analyse factors influencing their awareness and readiness. The study was conducted in Kuching, Sarikei, and Sri Aman, with 585 first-time voters aged 18 to 20 years surveyed via a questionnaire and 30 respondents in focus group discussions. The study found that parental involvement, political experience, social media exposure, educational exposure, and perception of and relationships with politicians were the five main factors influencing youth political participation and awareness and readiness towards Undi18. Geographical factors did not affect the level of awareness and readiness regarding Undi18. Despite the majority of respondents being aware of Undi18 and ready to participate as voters, a significant number were not prepared for higher forms of political participation.

Political Reform in Jordan (2011- 2022) Positioning Youth Political Participation in Large Power Distance National Culture

The engagement of youth in the formal political process is essential not only in building stable and peaceful societies but also in developing policies that respond to the specific needs of younger generations. This study aims to model the impact of the large power distance dimension of culture in developing youth political participation in Jordan. The study will also compare the efforts of Jordan in promoting political participation among youth in 2011 and 2021 as part of political reform strategies. It also provides potential solutions that will lead the way to a more inclusive national culture. The study utilized the power distance index of Hofstede's cultural dimension. The result of the study revealed that the Jordanian culture is dynamic, and as such may witness a level of transformation, while keeping the power vertical, through the active involvement and engagement of youth in the political process and decision-making through unconventional participation. Thus, creating both committees clarifies the placement of youth in political participation in large power distance natural culture, where the gap is wider than expected. It was recommended that youth should take bold steps in establishing promising networks in their field of expertise, social circle, and beyond. They should eliminate barriers to engagement in political participation including the creation of parties that are based on ideologies and aspirations. 

Interrogating the evolution of a constitutionally-legitimised 'Big Man' political culture and its influence on political participation by Kenyan youth

This article critically analyses the evolution ofKenya's constitutionally-legitimised 'Big Man' political culture and its influence on youth political participation. The core thesis of the article is that Kenya's constitutionally-legitimised 'Big Man' political culture restricts youth political participation, beyond voting, while making them susceptible to manipulation by politicians. In exploring this thesis, the article's guiding research question is: Beyond voting, how has the Kenyan government enhanced or restricted direct youth political participation as a right provided for under article 25 of International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and subsequently domesticated under the Kenyan Constitution? The modes of political participation examined in this context are forming a political party and running for public office. Contextually, the article interrogates the political regimes of Kenyatta, Moi, Kibaki and Uhuru and their use of constitutional amendments to crystallise power in the executive for critical analysis of the evolution of Kenya's 'Big Man' political culture pertaining to youth political participation. It then applies the lessons learned from past and current regimes to inform recommendations on how the state can facilitate the Kenyan youth to enjoy the right of political participation fully, effectively and equally as provided for under article 25 of ICCPR as domesticated under the Kenyan Constitution.

Digital citizenship in the 21st century: Analyzing the impact of social media on youth political activism and civic engagement

In the digital age, the internet and social media have emerged as pivotal platforms shaping the political consciousness of youth worldwide. This research article delves into this phenomenon, focusing on Kazakhstan in the backdrop of international trends. It aims to unravel how digital media influences political awareness, engagement, and activism among young citizens, particularly in Kazakhstan while drawing parallels with global patterns. The study adopts a comparative approach, juxtaposing the Kazakhstani experience against a tapestry of international instances, thereby uncovering unique regional dynamics alongside universal trends in digital political engagement.This analysis is grounded in a blend of quantitative data, detailed case studies, and theoretical frameworks from international relations and media studies. By examining the role of digital platforms in political mobilization, information dissemination, and opinion formation, the research underscores the transformative impact of these technologies on youth political participation. The Kazakhstani context, with its distinct historical, cultural, and political landscape, provides a rich case for understanding the interplay between technology and youth political behavior in a transitioning society.The article contributes to the literature by filling the gap regarding digital political engagement in non-Western contexts, particularly in Central Asia. It offers insights into the ways digital media serve as tools for political expression, community building, and civic activism among youth, highlighting the nuances of these interactions in Kazakhstan

Youth Political Participation and Party Politics during the 2023 General Elections in Nigeria

The waning of young participation in politics has made the involvement of Nigerian youth in politics a contentious issue since the country's return to democracy on May 29, 1999. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the level of youth participation at the party level during 2023 general elections in Nigeria. This study used secondary data such as textbooks, Journal articles and online sources while content analysis was used to analyse the data collected. Moreover, this study is situated within the “Sleeping Dog Theory”. The study argues that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) recorded the highest number of youth participation at the party level during the 2023 general elections. Other parties in order of increased youth participation include Action Democratic Party, New Nigeria's People Party (NNPP), Socialist Democratic Party (SDP), Action Alliance (AA) and Labour Party among others. However, Labour Party occupied sixth position, Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) thirteen positions while the All Progressive Congress (APC) fifteen positions. This shows that the three dominant Political parties during the 2023 general elections namely Labour Party, Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressive Congress (APC) were not among the leading political parties that encouraged youth participation at the party level during the 2023 general elections. On the whole, this study recommends among other things that Interparty Advisory Council (IPAC) which is the umbrella body for Political parties in Nigeria should work closely with the various political party leadership on ways to increase youth participation at the party level like the reduction of the party nomination/interest form.
  
 Received: 10 October 2023 / Accepted: 28 December 2023 / Published: 5 January 2024

‘New Dispensation, New Kids on the Block’. 'Ama 2000' and the 2023 Harmonised Elections in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe's political landscape has undergone significant changes since the 2017 coup, with the post-coup period being christened the ‘New Dispensation’. The advent of the ‘New Dispensation’, characterised with promises of a new and revolving democracy, coincided with the coming of voting age of ‘Ama 2000’. The paper investigated the electoral participation of ‘Ama 2000’ in Zimbabwe’s 2023 elections. A theoretical framework that looked at factors that influence youth political participation was developed and used in explaining the electoral participation or their lack thereof. 115 focus group respondents between the ages of 18 to 23 were selected in Zimbabwe’s cities of Harare and Bulawayo, wherein conversations on the motivations and barriers on youth political engagement were facilitated.  Whilst ‘Ama 2000’ demonstrated political knowledge and interest, they are generally apathetic, with a few participating in voting whilst most did not associate with the other forms of electoral participation. Disillusionment with both politicians and political parties, politically motivated violence, and life cycle factors were the major reasons for their lack of interest in the country’s 2023 elections. Arguably, there is no democratic and plural ‘New Dispensation’ after all, as these same factors have deterred older youth from participating in elections under the authoritarian Mugabe regime. However, the limited participation of ‘Ama 2000’ in voting demonstrates commitment to democratic principles and a desire to shape the country's future. To address the youth apathy gap, political parties must actively engage with them, reform and promote inclusivity. At state level, structural reforms of an electoral nature are necessary to protect the security of the voter. Civil society has a role to play in strengthening civic education programs that instill a sense of civic duty and active participation in democracy. By involving youth in the democratic process, Zimbabwe can build a foundation for inclusive political participation.

Youth worldlessness and civic participation online and at school: Exploring Arendt’s philosophy

ABSTRACT This paper seeks to explore the possible contribution that thinking with Arendt can bring to understanding the nuances of school-aged young people’s civic participation. Using Arendt’s work on responsibility, political presence and the notion of worldlessness, this paper will explore how young people’s social media interactions can serve as a way to foster a more critical sense of civic participation and political agency in education. This paper comprises three main sections. Firstly, there is a critical discussion on how the notion of ‘public sphere’ may help to conceptualise school as an important site for youth political and civic participation and engagement, even when Arendt’s position in education is that the school should not be touched by politics, in this way the paper uses Arendt to think against Arendt to position the school as a ‘space of appearance’. Secondly, the notion of what I term in this paper youth worldlessness is developed by using Arendt’s (2018) theory to frame for understanding the everyday exclusions and displacements experienced by research participants and how citizenship education struggles to serve as an outlet for them. Thirdly, the paper analyses the role of young people’s social media engagements by examining data from a qualitative study with British young people, ranging from 15 to 18 years of age.

Youth Participation in Politics: Shared Vision and Democracy in India

Many people think that young people will be the leaders of tomorrow, but in reality, they are the leaders of today, and their diverse upbringing and life experiences will influence how they view politics. They must thus become more politically educated and engaged in order to direct their efforts toward constructive change and position themselves as leaders in the defense and advancement of democracy. Young people who are politically engaged develop a civic ethic that extends beyond politics and includes community service through involvement in health, education, and philanthropic endeavors. Voting, taking part in political revelations, and signing petitions on certain causes are all examples of political involvement, which is a more focused form of civic commitment or contribution. Young people's involvement in politics is not only advantageous in the near run, but it also lays the groundwork for sustained political activism in the future. It is imperative that they acknowledge that they are the leaders of today and, as such, that they have a greater say in the course of their future. In addition, kids may be a creative force and a dynamic source of inventions. Throughout history, youth have surely engaged in, contributed to, and even accelerated significant changes in political institutions, power relations, and economic prospects. This research paper is based on youth participation in politics: shared vision and democracy in India.

Controlling consent, dealing with dissent, and planting misinformation: how the Museveni regime stifled Bobi Wine's youth movement in Uganda

ABSTRACT After Uganda embraced electoral democracy in 1996, a trend emerged where Ugandans between 18 and 35 do not turn out to vote in large numbers. Although the country is astonishingly young, Ugandan youth had long shown little interest in politics and were less likely to run for public positions compared to older Ugandans. However, the meteoric rise of Bobi Wine has inspired many young Ugandans to engage in local and national politics as first-time voters, party members, cash contributors, protesters and foot soldiers. This article explains how the rise of Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, a popular singer turned opponent of President Museveni, has inspired an upsurge in youth political participation in Uganda. The article posits that, to contain a growing youth-led movement, the Museveni regime largely relied on coercion, which has thus far proved counterproductive. The more coercion is employed the more it aggravates the backlash from and determination of young Ugandans to mobilise against Museveni’s rule. The response from the regime has been a mixture of repression, disinformation and disenfranchisement of young voters.

Can high school competitive debating facilitate political participation? The role of political knowledge and identification with a politically active group

Although young people express dissatisfaction with their lives and politics, research indicates a decline in youth political participation. Therefore, it is important to investigate activities that could incentivize youth to be more engaged in politics. Available studies suggest that debating in high-school debate clubs could lead to a greater intention to participate in politics. This study investigates the relationship between debating and political participation, and further explores political knowledge and identification with a group of debaters as potential mechanisms underlying this relationship. A total of 175 members of high school debate clubs from Croatia participated in the study. Results showed a positive association between the longevity of membership in a high school debate club and the intention to participate in politics. This relationship was completely mediated by greater political knowledge and identification with the group of debaters, meaning a group of politically active young people. In practice, these findings suggest young people, especially ones that have less political knowledge and are not inclined to participate in politics, should be incentivized to join debate clubs or similar activities.

The practice of youth participation in local government elections. Preliminary evidence from Mwanza city, Tanzania

Worldwide it has been reported the challenge of the decline of youth political participation in democratic elections. Hence the study aims to investigate the practice of local government elections among youth in Mwanza City Tanzania East Africa. A snowball sampling technique was applied to select 123 youths as a sample in study areas. Quantitative data was collected by using an interview schedule and qualitative data were collected by using Focus Group Discussions and key informant interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed by using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and qualitative data was analyzed by using content analysis. The study findings showed that youth competence, especially knowledge of technical know-how and financial resources, affected the practice of youth participation in local government elections. The study concludes that the possession of financial resources and knowledge by youth are important practices in local government elections Therefore, the study recommends policymakers and political parties provide training on elections regulations and financial resources to support youth practices in local government elections.

The children and youth participation in politics: case study of the project “Youth Voice: empowering positive change (Youth4Change)”

The children and youth participation in politics: case study of the project “Youth Voice: empowering positive change (Youth4Change)”

청소년 정치참여활동 현황 및 발전방안에 대한 사례연구

청소년 정치참여활동 현황 및 발전방안에 대한 사례연구

Political participation of refugee and host community youths: epistemic resistance through artistic and participatory spaces

ABSTRACT The political participation of youth is growing in importance with the proliferation of youth parliaments, councils, and online campaigning. Yet, these sites are not accessible to all youth, especially those from minority, or refugee communities. Activism by these types of youth is often denounced or reduced to dehumanising narratives of their experiences. This paper aims to explore alternative spaces for and political participation of refugees through participatory art and exhibition spaces, which are critical for devising policies for pre-emptive peacebuilding and challenging potential intercommunal conflict. In this paper, we draw on a Photovoice project in Istanbul, Johannesburg and a refugee settlement in South-West Uganda (Oruchinga) that brought youth from FDPs and host communities together to reflect on their everyday experiences. All these sites are marked by increasing anti-refugee sentiments and xenophobia, where the voices of refugees are often denied and misinterpreted, making them compelling cases to elaborate on alternative participation methods and spaces for the political participation of refugees. The paper engages with the idea of epistemic (in)justice and resistance as an overarching condition to explore how the youth developed collective political voices.

Analisis Minat Politik Kaum Muda Dalam Menyikapi Pemerintahan Era Jokowi 2019-2023 (Studi kasus pada mahasiswa Jombang)

This study aims to analyze the political interest of young people in Jombang during the reign of President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and the factors that influence the political interest of young people. This type of research is qualitative, this research explores various forms of formal and non-formal political participation carried out by young people. The data collection technique used a purposive method with eight student informants spread across four universities in Jombang. Source of data obtained based on primary data and secondary data. To collect data, researchers used observation techniques, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies. The data analysis model used is data collection, data reduction, data presentation and conclusion. The results of this study indicate that the political participation of young people increased during the Jokowi administration, influenced by information disclosure, access to technology, and contemporary issues that are of concern to the younger generation. Nonetheless, there are still challenges in empowering youth political participation, including structural barriers and lack of representation in public policies. From the results of this study it can be concluded that the importance of empowering youth in the political decision-making process in Indonesia to ensure a more inclusive future of democracy and the factors causing youth's lack of interest in politics include the political perception that it is boring to discuss and follow developments. political and economic education.

Leadership and Political Participation of Garo Youth in Meghalaya: Empowering the Future Generation

Leadership and political participation of Garo youth in the northeastern state of Meghalaya are a significant demographic, making up over 40% of the Meghalaya state’s population in India. The Garo community, one of the most prominent indigenous tribes in the region, has experienced significant cultural transformations over the years, but the preservation of their unique heritage and values remains crucial. Moreover, it also discusses the impact of youth participation and leadership on the overall development of Meghalaya, considering the perspectives of sustainable development, community cohesion, and cultural preservation. By incorporating the voices of Garo youth, they themselves provide an authentic and inclusive view of their aspirations, challenges, and visions for the future. The objectives of the research article are, firstly, to examine the role of Garo youth in actively engaging in social, political, and economic activities, as well as their growing involvement in leadership roles within their communities. Secondly, this research aims to identify the barriers that hinder the full potential of Garo youth and suggest potential solutions for enhanced empowerment. Thirdly, the study aims to explore effective measures and policy interventions that can enhance Garo youth engagement and leadership, thus contributing to the overall development and prosperity of the community while fostering a sense of pride and ownership among the youth for their cultural heritage and identity. This research article adopts descriptive-analytical and qualitative methods. The study is based on secondary sources such as magazines, books, articles, newspapers, and online resources related to the topic. The delimitation of the present study is that it focuses only on youth political participation in the Garo Hills of the State of Meghalaya.