Should We Send MPs Back to School? A Call for Youth Engagement in Politics

Earlier today, I received a compelling link to the initial findings of a study exploring young people’s attitudes towards politics in Britain. Conducted by Nottingham Trent University researchers, the study reveals insights into how young volunteers perceive political figures.

Youth Perception of Politicians

A survey of 1,025 eighteen-year-olds in Britain revealed only 15% believe young people are treated fairly by politicians, while 63% express little or no trust in them. This highlights a significant barrier in fostering civic engagement among the youth. Send MPs back to school?

Building Mutual Respect

The starting point must be mutual respect between politicians and young people. Often, the media portrays young people negatively, overshadowing their positive impact on society. To earn respect, politicians need authentic engagement beyond mere appearances during election campaigns or publicity stunts.

Trust and Fairness in Treatment

The disparity in treatment is evident. Young people face severe penalties for minor offenses, while MPs may escape with minimal repercussions for major financial misconduct. Bridging this gap requires open dialogue and understanding between youth and political leaders.

Embracing Digital Literacy

In today’s digital age, the way young people connect with politicians is outdated. With 88% of young people checking social media frequently, platforms like Facebook and Twitter present opportunities for meaningful engagement. Politicians should leverage these tools to discuss local issues and foster trust. vInspired calls on political leaders to deliver youth pledges on Twitter

Moving Forward

To improve perceptions and interactions between young people and politicians, it might be worthwhile to educate MPs on effective use of social media. This could be a step towards bridging the communication gap and enhancing civic engagement among young volunteers.

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Conclusion

Ultimately, fostering a respectful and understanding relationship between young people and politicians is crucial for the future of civic engagement. By embracing digital literacy and mutual respect, we can pave the way for a more inclusive political landscape for young volunteers.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on how we can improve political engagement among young people.