youth Disengagement and the rise of Right-Wing Politics

Florence, 9 October 2025 – In an era marked by political disaffection and increasing abstentionism – with even Tuscany bracing for a potential decline in turnout for itS upcoming regional elections – a concerning trend afflicts young voters aged 18-35: “They vote less than other voters, are less interested in politics, don’t beleive voting is an instrument of change, and don’t feel represented by parties, lists, or candidates. There is extensive research demonstrating a misalignment between young people’s concerns (climate crisis, cost of living, employment) and the agendas of political parties.”

Underrepresentation and Shifting Political Landscapes

This lack of participation leads to a notable consequence: young people are strongly underrepresented in institutions, especially during sub-national elections like the tuscan regional vote scheduled for Sunday and Monday, according to Sorina Cristina Soare, a professor of political science at the University of Florence.

Several factors contribute to this trend. Higher levels of education and employment correlate with greater political participation. “Especially among women,” notes soare. Analyzing the current political climate, she points to the rise of right-wing governments in countries like the United States, italy, the Netherlands, Hungary, and Slovakia, as well as the gains made by Marine Le Pen in france under President Macron – a nation experiencing political instability reminiscent of italy’s First Republic – as key indicators.

The Appeal of “Order and Discipline”

“Especially among men with lower levels of education, numerous studies show their vote isn’t just participatory – as Soare’s analysis reveals – but increasingly directed towards parties advocating ‘order and discipline,’ prioritizing security as a core political identity. This isn’t solely about economic protection; it’s also a demand for social security.”

Generational Divides and Emerging Issues

A generational divide exists on critical issues like the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as environmental concerns. However, Soare emphasizes that these aren’t simply “post-material issues.” She recalls that in 2023, Geert Wilders’ far-right party in the Netherlands secured victory with significant support from young voters, fueled by promises of affordable housing.

The Influence of Political Influencers

A growing concern is the role of social media and political influencers. “Young people are engaging with politics through these influencers, a phenomenon that Italy isn’t adequately addressing. these influencers control and reach spaces frequented by young people that traditional politics has largely abandoned. This contributes to the declining trust young people have in politics.”

Key Takeaways:

• Youth voter turnout is declining, leading to underrepresentation in institutions.
• Lower education and employment levels correlate with increased support for right-wing parties emphasizing “order and discipline.”
• Generational divides exist on key issues, but concerns extend beyond traditional “post-material” values.
• Political influencers are playing an increasingly significant role in shaping young people’s political views.

Published: 2025/10/10 03:06:19