A lot of recent surveys have sought to answer the question:

What do Generation Z actually think about democracy and authoritarianism?

In recent years, a notable shift has emerged in the political attitudes of Generation Z (Gen Z) in Western societies, particularly regarding their perspectives on democracy. Surveys and studies across various countries reveal a complex and sometimes contradictory relationship between young people and democratic governance. This blog delves into these findings, highlighting the nuances and potential implications of Gen Z’s evolving political stance.

United Kingdom: A Growing Disenchantment with Democracy

In the UK, several studies have highlighted a growing disenchantment with democratic institutions among young people. A survey conducted by Royal Holloway, University of London, revealed that nearly half (49%) of respondents aged 16-21 expressed dissatisfaction with how democracy functions in the country, while only 29% reported satisfaction. This dissatisfaction is further reflected in a poll by Glasgow University’s John Smith Centre, which found that 63% of 16- to 29-year-olds agreed that UK democracy is troubled.

More alarmingly, a survey conducted by polling company Craft for Channel 4 indicated that 52% of Gen Z respondents (aged 13-27) believed that having a strong leader who bypasses parliament and elections could improve the UK. Additionally, 33% supported the idea of military rule, and 47% were in favor of radical societal changes through revolution. citeturn0search2 These findings suggest a significant openness among young Britons to authoritarian alternatives, driven by a desire for decisive action and systemic change.

United States: A Similar Trend Emerges

Across the Atlantic, similar sentiments are observed among American youth. A survey conducted exclusively for Newsweek by Redfield & Wilton Strategies in February 2025 found that 40% of Gen Z Americans (aged 18-25) agreed that “rule by a strong leader, where a strong leader can make decisions without interference from the legislature or from the courts” would be a good system of government for the U.S., compared to 27% who thought it would be bad. Furthermore, 51% of Gen Z respondents expressed willingness to give up some democratic powers if it led to more effective governance. citeturn0search0 These figures indicate a notable openness to authoritarian governance among American youth.

Challenging the Narrative: The King’s College London Study

Contrasting these findings, research from King’s College London offers a different perspective. Their study revealed that only 6% of UK Gen Z individuals explicitly supported the idea of a dictator without parliamentary checks and elections. The study suggests that previous surveys may have overestimated authoritarian leanings due to question phrasing and interpretation. When terms like “strong leader” were replaced with “dictator,” support significantly declined. This indicates that while young people desire effective leadership, it doesn’t necessarily translate to support for authoritarianism.

Economic Concerns Over Ideological Battles

Contrary to the assumption that cultural issues dominate Gen Z’s political concerns, the Glasgow University poll highlighted that financial worries (37%), work pressures (23%), and job insecurity (20%) are the primary stressors for young people in the UK. Issues like climate change and culture wars ranked lower in their list of concerns. This prioritization indicates that economic stability is a more pressing issue for Gen Z than ideological debates.

Gender Divides in Political Leanings

An emerging trend is the political divergence between young men and women. In the UK, for instance, the Channel 4 survey found that 45% of male Gen Z respondents felt that efforts to promote women’s equality have led to discrimination against men. This perception contributes to a gender divide in political attitudes, with some young men gravitating towards figures who challenge progressive narratives. citeturn0search2 This polarization may stem from differing experiences and priorities, influenced by factors such as education, social movements, and economic opportunities.

Influence of Social Media and Trust Issues

The pervasive influence of social media has significantly shaped Gen Z’s political perspectives. Channel 4’s research emphasizes that many young people trust social media posts from friends as much as, or more than, traditional journalism. citeturn0search2 This shift in trust has made them more susceptible to misinformation and the sway of online influencers, some of whom promote authoritarian viewpoints. The rapid dissemination of unverified information contributes to skepticism towards traditional democratic institutions and fuels the appeal of alternative governance models.

Implications and the Path Forward

The growing ambivalence towards democracy among Gen Z in Western societies presents both challenges and opportunities. While dissatisfaction with current democratic systems is evident, it also reflects a desire for more effective and responsive governance. Addressing economic concerns, enhancing political education, and rebuilding trust in democratic institutions are crucial steps in engaging young people. Moreover, fostering critical media literacy can empower Gen Z to navigate the complex information landscape, enabling them to make informed decisions and resist the allure of authoritarian alternatives.

In conclusion, the evolving attitudes of Gen Z towards democracy are multifaceted and influenced by a confluence of economic, social, and technological factors. Understanding these dynamics is essential for policymakers, educators, and society at large to ensure that democratic systems evolve to meet the needs and aspirations of younger generations.