Youth Political Participation in the Digital Era: Trends, Drivers, and Democratic Implications

บทคัดย่อ

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.