Citizenship And Participation: Western Europe And Postcommunist Countries Wolfgang Gaiser

Citizenship and Participation: Western Europe and postcommunist countries Wolfgang Gaiser DJI München

Abstract Impatience with politics, weariness with political commitment, and individualisation are labels frequently used to characterise the political involvement of young people. Empirical analyses show a rather more complex picture. A basic willingness to become politically involved and to express one’s political opinion is apparent: Indeed, many young people use numerous and varied opportunities to express themselves politically; however, this usually covers only occasional activities. Not surprisingly, participation in some traditional associations has become lower. On the other hand, affinity and commitment to new social movements remain fairly consistent. Participation patterns differ according to gender, education level, and the youth’s place of origin. In a European perspective, the complex interconnections between the institutionalised political cultures of nations and the participation patterns of young people become apparent.

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