Item
YOUTH POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE DIGITAL ERA: TRENDS, DRIVERS, AND DEMOCRATIC IMPLICATIONS
- Author
- Phramaha Wasan Hngokchai
- Year
- 2025
- Publisher
- Journal of Modern Academic Social Science (Online)
- DOI/Link
- View Source
- Abstract
-
The study explores the evolving patterns of political participation
among youth in the digital era, focusing on how technological advancements have
redefined the ways in which young people engage with democratic processes. As
digital platforms become increasingly integrated into daily life, they offer new spaces
for civic expression, communication, and activism, particularly among the younger
generation. This research aims to examine the current trends in youth political
participation, identify key factors that drive such engagement, and assess the
implications for democratic development. The study is grounded in a qualitative
research methodology, employing document analysis and descriptive interpretation
to explore youth behaviors, motivations, and challenges related to political
participation. It highlights the importance of digital literacy, civic education, and
critical thinking as foundational components in fostering informed and responsible
participation. Findings reveal that while traditional forms of political engagement
such as voting remain essential, there is a noticeable shift toward digital forms of
participation, including online advocacy, social media activism, and participation in
virtual forums and campaigns. The flexibility and immediacy of digital tools allow
youth to express opinions, build networks, and organize movements more effectively
than ever before. However, the study also notes that while digital engagement offers
new opportunities, it also presents challenges such as misinformation, digital divides,
and the potential for superficial involvement. To enhance meaningful youth political
participation, it is crucial to implement strategies that combine digital empowerment
with education that promotes ethical responsibility, critical inquiry, and community
engagement. This study underscores the potential of youth as key actors in shaping
political futures and emphasizes the need to support their active involvement through
inclusive, informed, and digitally adaptive frameworks. - Keywords
- Civic Engagement
- Tags
- Political communication
- PGDMIL Course
- C03 – Audiences and Representation
- PGDMIL Block
- C03-B2: Digital Civic Engagement
- Has Part
- C03-U08: Media and Political Participation
- Corpus Status
- Pending Review