Civic and Political Participation of Armenian Youth in The Post-War Reality: Perceptions and Practices

Abstract

The primary objective of this article is to conduct an in-depth analysis and presentation of the current understanding of the engagement of young individuals in civic and political processes. It seeks to elucidate the principal forms of youth participation and the main problems and challenges that influence their engagement. Furthermore, the article endeavors to shed light on the predominant issues and challenges encountered in the realm of youth political participation, with a specific focus on Armenian youth. In the contemporary context, comprehending how the domains of youth studies, policy formulation, and practical implementations address the intricate matter of youth participation has gained heightened significance. The article presents the issues of youth participation practices and elucidates the interaction between education, information technology, and civil society.

The findings of the research underscore a prevailing trend of non-traditional participation methods taking precedence in Armenia today. Among Armenian youth, there exists a lack of trust in governmental institutions, official information channels, and even in the prospects of the future at large. This prevailing sentiment significantly impacts their civic and political participation endeavors. What becomes apparent is the pressing need for platforms that facilitate youth participation and the dissemination of knowledge. Engaging at the local or community level provides young individuals with a unique opportunity to witness immediate and tangible outcomes of their involvement. This not only establishes a positive precedent for their participation on broader scales, whether at the national or international level, but also cultivates a sense of empowerment and efficacy. In the context of the Republic of Armenia, motivation emerges as a pivotal driving force shaping the participation practices of its youth. While teenagers perceive participation as a means to accrue knowledge and social capital, their slightly older counterparts place significant emphasis on using participation as a conduit to influence decision-making processes and navigate the far-reaching aftermath of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

The place of residence influences participation practices, with a more adverse impact observed among rural youth aged 18-35. Conversely, for those aged 15-19, the connection between place of residence and participation appears less pronounced. The youth participation dynamics in the Republic of Armenia are intertwined with access to information technology, the quality of civic education, and public trust levels. These factors exhibit substantial interconnections that shape the participation landscape. A critical determinant is the crisis of confidence, which directly affects youth participation. However, it's worth noting that this crisis can be effectively overcome through comprehensive civic education initiatives.