How democracy survives through generational change

Gen Z’s rising influence will shape the future of democracy

There's been a lot of talk of passing the torch this year, but the torch that ultimately matters most is with the electorate, not the candidates. 

Today, the median voter is Gen X. If trends continue, we may see more voters under 35 than over 65 in November. 

What does this generational change mean for the future of American democracy?

Youth movements have often been the driving force behind democratic change. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s saw significant involvement from young people, particularly college-aged students of color, who organized sit-ins, freedom rides, and voter registration drives that fundamentally altered the political landscape in the United States. Similarly, young people in countries like Tunisia and Egypt played crucial roles in mobilizing for democratic reforms during the Arab Spring in the 2010s.

Here in the U.S., Gen Z’s activism, exemplified by the March for Our Lives after the 2018 Parkland shooting, shows how this generation — my generation — is not just engaged but capable of shaping national conversations on critical issues. This activism has translated into increased voter turnout in subsequent elections, suggesting that this generation’s political influence is only beginning to be felt. 

As we navigate this period of transformation, we can look at emerging demographic, cultural, and value-based shifts, as well as comparative historical examples, that may provide insight into how this generational change will shape the future of our democracy.

Gen Z voters are gaining influence quickly

In the 2024 election, 40.8 million members of Gen Z, aged 18-27, will be eligible to vote, including 8.3 million newly eligible voters since the 2022 midterm elections. And, according to vote.org​, over 1 million new voter registrations have been added in this cycle alone, 79% of which are voters under 35, and 34% of which are newly eligible 18-year-olds. 

According to a Harvard Youth Poll, 53% of eligible Gen Z voters plan to vote in the upcoming election, signaling strong civic engagement and a potential shift in their participation in the democratic process. 

And while there’s still a turnout gap by age — as there has been for decades — it’s closing fast. 

Source: Statista.com

It’s the issues, not the candidates

What’s striking about Gen Z voters is their focus on issues rather than political candidates. Numerous polls indicate that young voters are driven by their concerns over climate change, racial justice, and economic inequality. This focus on policy over personality is a crucial factor in understanding their political behavior. 

Historically, movements driven by young people, such as the People Power Revolution of 1986 in the Philippines, or the Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia, were driven by a broad-based demand for political freedom, support for the rule of law, and the restoration democratic governance. These movements transcended any particular leader or political candidate, and instead called for widespread and lasting systemic change.

Gen Z voters are increasingly shaping the direction of American democracy with their demands for substantial action. While there is evidence in recent polling that young people express disillusionment with the perceived inaction and dysfunction of democracy, their skepticism should be viewed less as a retreat from democratic ideals, and more as a desire for a more responsive and effective system. 

As Gen Z rises in influence, their push for action could breathe new life into our democratic institutions. 

Their participation, driven by an insistence on addressing the deeply embedded issues of inequity, discrimination, and oppression, could be the key to ensuring that our democracy evolves, helping to build a more resilient and responsive system that meets the needs of each successive generation.

Hope is a powerful generational driver

One of the most powerful drivers of civic engagement among young voters is hope. In a political environment too often dominated by pessimism, hope provides a counterbalance that can inspire and mobilize. Even a generation sometimes mocked for being detached or disillusioned is, at its core, driven by a hopeful vision of the future. 

Hope has historically been a critical element in democratic resilience. After World War II, the Marshall Plan symbolized hope for a war-torn continent and people yearning for a peaceful and prosperous future. Similarly, South Africa’s transition from apartheid regime to democracy in the 1990s was driven by a collective hope for a future free of racial oppression, a vision that inspired millions of young South Africans to engage in the political process.

In the U.S., the hope embodied by movements like the fight for marriage equality or the more recent push for comprehensive climate policy has been a significant force in driving political change. Gen Z’s hopeful outlook, paired with a demand for action, positions them as a vital force in ensuring that the the future of American democracy continues to evolve and address the needs of a diverse, multi-racial electorate. 

Looking ahead: risks and opportunities 

The rise of a more racially and ethnically diverse electorate, coupled with the hopeful and issue-driven approach of young voters today, presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, this shift holds the promise of accelerating positive, lasting change, potentially leading to a more inclusive and representative democracy. On the other, it brings with it the tension of political differences between younger and older voters, as well as the challenge of sustaining momentum for long-term reform.

However, it’s important to recognize a sobering reality: While Gen Z is more politically engaged than previous generations, recent polling indicates that some young voters are less committed to democracy, with some even expressing support for political violence or autocracy as a way to address societal frustrations.

This disillusionment stems from a perception democracy has failed to deliver meaningful change in their lives. In an era where every election is framed as “the most consequential of our lifetimes,” it’s understandable for many young people to feel tired of a system that seems mired in gridlock and inaction. 

Read: Protect Democracy’s work shaping the democracy of tomorrow

Yet the very qualities that drive skepticism for the long-term sustainability of democracy — demand for action, impatience for results, and the use of new media — are also what can propel democracy forward. Instead of simply pushing for greater engagement, it’s clear the solutions lie in substantive, systemic change that demonstrates democracy can truly work for this generation. By meeting Gen Z where they are, addressing their frustrations head-on, and fostering avenues for real change, we can harness their energy towards strengthening, rather than abandoning, democratic principles. 

Ultimately, the risks posed by disillusionment are outweighed by the bright spots we’ve already seen in Gen Z’s political activism. It’s incumbent upon all who participate in democracy — whether older generations, civic leaders, or activists — to work with young people to foster their belief in the power of reform, justice, and civic engagement. 

By helping Gen Z channel their frustrations into collective action and meaningful reform, we can ensure that democracy remains relevant and transformative, capable of addressing the needs of future generations.

History, as they say, is now in our hands.