The TUNE Network is proud to present the findings of its comprehensive survey on youth civic engagement. Gathering responses from a diverse group of young people aged 18-30 across various European countries, the survey provides a crucial snapshot of the challenges and opportunities facing today’s youth.
Key Findings:
1. A Crisis of Representation
A striking 65% of respondents believe that young people are either “not at all” or “poorly” represented in the decision-making processes within their communities. This clear representation gap highlights a fundamental disconnect between youth and their governing institutions.
2. Identifying the Barriers to Participation
When asked about the main barriers to participation, young people pointed to a trio of critical issues:
- Lack of Information (19%)
- Financial or Transport Barriers (20.8%)
- Limited Trust in Institutions (17.4%)
Other significant factors included discrimination and a lack of support from institutions, painting a picture of an environment that is often unwelcoming to young participants.
3. High Digital Confidence Presents an Opportunity
On a positive note, the survey found that the vast majority of young people feel “Confident” or “Very Confident” in using digital tools for civic engagement. This inherent digital literacy is a powerful asset that can be leveraged to create more accessible and modern pathways for participation.
4. Priority Topics for Youth Advocacy
The survey also uncovered the issues young people are most passionate about. The top topics they believe youth should speak up about more are:
- Mental Health (100%)
- Education (82.4%)
- Employment and Skills (70.9%)
- Climate Action (66.1%)
Conclusion: A Call for Inclusive Action
The results of the TUNE+ survey are unambiguous. Young people are not apathetic; they are constrained. They possess the digital skills and the passion to drive change on critical issues, but they face tangible barriers and a profound sense of underrepresentation.
The TUNE+ project is committed to using these insights to develop tools and strategies that amplify youth voices, break down these barriers, and foster a more inclusive civic landscape where every young person has an equal opportunity to be heard.
This survey was conducted as part of the TUNE network. For more detailed data, including breakdowns by age, gender, and area of residence, please explore our full set of infographics.
