Youth in Politics: Shaping Tomorrow, Leading Today

In the grand theatre of politics, where the spotlight often shines on seasoned politicians, it’s easy to forget that the future is actually in the hands of the younger generation. As we sit in classrooms, scroll through social media, or organise protests, we are quietly (and sometimes not-so-quietly) shaping the world we will inherit. The role of youth in politics is like that of an artist with a blank canvas — messy at times, but full of possibility. The big question, however, is whether we can successfully wield the brush or if we’ll be swept up in the chaos of political systems that seem intent on staying stuck in the past.

This question has become even more pertinent as young people across the globe have increasingly turned to political activism. They’re no longer waiting for change to come from traditional leaders or older generations. From climate strikes to social justice movements, the youth of today are taking the lead, channeling their collective energy into shaping policies that will impact not only their lives but the future of society as a whole. It’s a dynamic shift, one that has sparked important debates about the role of youth in politics and whether they truly have the power to change the political landscape — or whether they’ll be left on the sidelines.

Source: Ben Stansall/AFP via Getty Images

Youth and Politics: A Relationship Beyond the Vote

Politics has always been perceived as a game for the older, more experienced crowd, right? But the reality is that youth have been involved in political movements for centuries, often leading the charge when change seems long overdue. Think about it — the youth of the 1960s, ignited by civil rights movements and anti-Vietnam protests, didn’t wait for the “right” age to start questioning authority. Today, youth activism continues in many forms: from climate strikes to movements like Black Lives Matter and #MeToo. The issue is clear that young people aren’t just the future of politics — we’re the present too.

While the idea of voting at 18 has traditionally marked a young person’s entrance into politics, the impact of youth activism goes far beyond the ballot box. The act of voting, while significant, is just one tool in a much broader arsenal of political influence. Social movements, protests, and digital activism all play crucial roles in shaping the policies and decisions that affect us. Youth are more active than ever, not just as voters, but as powerful political agents who demand change, challenge old systems, and give voice to the issues that matter most to them.

From the global student-led protests for climate action led by Greta Thunberg to the youth protests worldwide calling for democracy, young people have proven time and time again that their voice is one to be reckoned with. These movements often start small but grow in influence and magnitude. What begins as a few passionate individuals demanding justice or change can snowball into a global movement, capable of influencing international policy. Yet, some critics argue that while youth bring passion, they often lack the political experience needed to create sustainable change. However, history has repeatedly shown that political experience is not always a prerequisite for meaningful action — sometimes, fresh perspectives and relentless energy are exactly what’s needed to break through stagnant systems.

The younger generation's ability to galvanise support is enhanced by the interconnectedness of the digital age. Social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok allow young people to organise, share ideas, and communicate directly with the public, often bypassing traditional media channels that might otherwise try to silence or dilute their message. These platforms make it easier for youth to reach millions of people worldwide and raise awareness of issues that might otherwise be ignored by mainstream media or political institutions.

The Power of Social Media: The Digital Revolution

The way we engage with politics is being revolutionised by social media, and surprise, surprise, the youth are leading the charge. From TikTok videos calling out politicians to viral Twitter threads breaking down policy issues, social media has become the new battlefield for political discourse. This is a place where movements are born, and where a meme can mobilise thousands of people in an instant. Remember the global impact of Greta Thunberg’s “Fridays for Future” movement? That wasn’t just an isolated incident — it’s the tip of the iceberg of youth’s ability to challenge the status quo in ways previous generations could only dream of.

Social media provides a unique space for young people to challenge the narratives put forth by established political leaders and institutions. With traditional media often being criticised for its corporate ownership and biases, social media platforms have become a more democratic space where everyone, regardless of their background, can share their views and challenge existing political power structures. Youth activists, for example, have used platforms like Twitter to call attention to systemic issues such as police brutality, climate change, and inequality, sparking debates and conversations that might have taken much longer to gain traction in traditional media outlets.

The impact of social media isn’t just about visibility; it’s also about influence. By creating viral campaigns, youth can use these platforms to put pressure on policymakers, corporations, and institutions to take meaningful action on issues that matter. When people tweet or post about something, it doesn’t just fade into the ether; it can trend, reach viral status, and potentially even prompt a reaction from those in power. This dynamic has changed how political leaders approach public opinion — especially when the opinions of young people, a demographic that was once considered disengaged or apathetic, are now so visible, vocal, and impossible to ignore.

It’s no surprise then that many young activists are focusing on political issues that directly affect their generation. Climate change, access to education, and gun control are just a few examples of issues that have taken centre stage in youth-led movements. One notable example is the “Fridays for Future" movement, founded by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg in 2018, which has inspired millions of students to strike from school in order to demand climate action from governments worldwide. This movement demonstrates the power of social media and the ability of youth to create a global impact, rallying young people around a cause and placing it on the political agenda in countries all over the world.

The Climate Crisis and Youth Leadership

If there’s one issue that encapsulates the urgency and power of youth in politics, it’s climate change. The climate crisis is not just something we’ll inherit — it’s something we’re already living with. And the youth, more than anyone else, are calling out governments for their inaction. From school strikes to protests, young people are making it clear: if the adults in charge won’t act, then we’ll step up and lead the way. Greta Thunberg, who started her school strike in 2018, is perhaps the most famous example, but she’s far from alone. Thousands of young people around the world are organising, speaking out, and demanding that politicians take the climate crisis seriously.

Climate change has emerged as the defining issue of this generation, and young people are at the forefront of the fight. For many of us, the future feels uncertain, not because of some distant, abstract threat, but because the effects of climate change are already being felt. From devastating wildfires in Australia to record-breaking hurricanes in the United States, the physical toll of climate change is evident everywhere. And yet, despite the overwhelming evidence, political leaders have been slow to enact meaningful change.

It’s youth activists like Thunberg who are leading the charge, forcing politicians to take notice. Thunberg’s efforts have not only sparked the Fridays for Future movement but have also brought the issue of climate change to international attention, even reaching the United Nations. Her speeches have gone viral, drawing attention to the need for urgent climate action and demanding that political leaders live up to their promises of a sustainable future.

The message is clear: the youth won’t sit idly by while their future is compromised. This is a generation that understands the magnitude of the problem, and we’re not waiting for permission to act. We’re demanding change — and we’re not going away until we get it.

Source: Matt Stuart/Magnum

The Struggles of Youth in Politics

However, the road to meaningful political participation isn’t without its challenges. Despite the energy, passion, and potential that young people bring to politics, there are systemic barriers that make it difficult for us to truly have a voice. Voter suppression, ageism, and lack of representation in positions of power are just a few of the obstacles that prevent youth from engaging in politics on an equal playing field. Many of the institutions that govern our lives are built around the interests of older generations, and while we may have the ideas and energy to spark change, we’re often shut out of the decision-making process.

These systemic issues can be discouraging, and sometimes it can feel like the deck is stacked against youth in politics. From voter ID laws to a lack of support for youth candidates, it’s clear that young people are often marginalised in the political process. But despite these obstacles, young people have shown that they are undeterred. Whether through protest, social media campaigns, or running for office themselves, youth activism is pushing the boundaries and challenging the status quo.

The struggle for political power is ongoing, but the results are already starting to show. Youth-led movements have forced issues like climate change and racial inequality into the political conversation, and while it may take time, the youth vote and youth-led activism are shaping the political future.

Political Pioneers?

Youth have always played an essential role in shaping the future of politics, but in today’s world, that role is more critical than ever. With the challenges of climate change, social inequality, and political polarisation, it is the voices of the younger generation that have the power to change the direction of the world. Through social media, grassroots movements, and relentless activism, the youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow — we are the leaders of today.

S xoxo

Written in London, England

3rd March 2025