Youth participation is the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy, essential for social cohesion and sustainable development. This essay explores the multifaceted dynamics of youth engagement in Portugal, unraveling the shifting trends, factors influencing participation, and the transformative role of online platforms in shaping political involvement.
Traditional avenues of participation, such as voting, show signs of decline or stagnation. Simultaneously, there is a noticeable surge in unconventional avenues, particularly in civic dimensions like social and political activism. This shift signifies a dynamic blend of participation that extends beyond traditional boundaries, highlighting the evolving nature of civic culture.
Socio-economic factors intricately weave into the fabric of youth participation. Higher education levels and family income are associated with increased engagement, highlighting the role of privilege. Populist attitudes cut across demographic boundaries among Portuguese youth, showcasing a correlation between lower family income, reduced political efficacy, and heightened populist sentiments.
A distinctive feature of youth participation in Portugal is the prominence of online platforms. Young people actively engage in political discussions and activism through social media and online forums. This compensates for traditional political disengagement, offering an alternative avenue for expression and mobilization. The virtual sphere becomes a crucial arena for shaping political discourse and mobilizing youth voices.