Generation Z (Gen Z), comprising individuals born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, is emerging as a significant force in global politics. Their political perspectives are shaped by a confluence of economic realities, digital media consumption, and active engagement in social issues. This blog explores the factors influencing Gen Z’s political opinions, their trusted sources of information, and their positioning on the political spectrum, drawing upon studies from various regions, including the Global South.

Economic Concerns and Job Security

Economic stability is a paramount concern for Gen Z across different regions. In the United Kingdom, a poll by Glasgow University’s John Smith Centre revealed that financial worries (37%), work pressures (23%), and job insecurity (20%) are the top stressors for individuals aged 16 to 29.

Similarly, in the United States, issues such as inflation and economic inequality are prominent among Gen Z’s concerns. In South Africa, economic challenges, including high unemployment rates, significantly influence the political priorities of young people. These economic anxieties often lead Gen Z to support policies aimed at job creation and economic reform.

Social Media Influence

Raised in the digital era, Gen Z’s political opinions are profoundly shaped by social media platforms. In South Africa, 78% of respondents who regularly post online do so to help bring about social change, the highest percentage among surveyed countries. citeturn0search4 This trend is also evident in the United States, where Gen Z’s engagement with platforms like TikTok and Instagram influences their political perspectives and mobilizes them around various causes. However, this reliance on social media also raises concerns about exposure to misinformation and echo chambers.

Education and Social Movements

Access to education and participation in social movements have heightened Gen Z’s awareness of issues such as climate change, racial justice, and gender equality. In South Africa, 71% of Gen Z respondents expressed a desire to work with brands to address societal issues, including climate change and poverty. This proactive stance is mirrored in other regions, where Gen Z’s involvement in movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter reflects their commitment to social justice and systemic change.

Trusted Sources of Information

Gen Z’s trust in information sources differs markedly from previous generations:

• Peer Networks and Influencers: They tend to trust content shared by peers and social media influencers more than traditional news outlets. This shift is attributed to the perceived relatability and authenticity of these sources. However, it also raises concerns about the spread of misinformation.
• Alternative Media Platforms: Podcasts, YouTube channels, and independent blogs are popular among Gen Z for news consumption. These platforms often present niche or countercultural perspectives, aligning with Gen Z’s scepticism toward mainstream media.

Generational Position on the Political Spectrum

Comparing Gen Z’s political orientation to previous generations reveals both continuities and departures:

• Liberal Social Views: Gen Z exhibits more liberal attitudes on social issues than Gen X and Baby Boomers. In the United States, 43% of Gen Z adults identify as liberal, compared to 28% of Gen Xers. citeturn0search5 This trend is also observed in South Africa, where Gen Z actively engages in social activism through digital platforms.
• Economic Progressivism: Economic hardships have led Gen Z to favor progressive economic policies, such as wealth redistribution and universal healthcare, more so than Millennials did at the same age.
• Political Polarization and Gender Differences: While generally leaning left, there’s notable polarization within Gen Z. In the United States, young men are increasingly drawn to right-leaning figures and ideologies, influenced by online personalities. This shift is attributed to factors such as economic dissatisfaction and cultural divides. Conversely, young women in Gen Z tend to maintain or deepen their liberal stances, leading to a pronounced gender divide in political orientations.

Political Engagement and Trust in Institutions

Despite their active engagement in social issues, Gen Z exhibits a complex relationship with traditional political institutions:

• Party Affiliation: In the United States, a significant portion of Gen Z does not strongly identify with either major political party. Only 22% identify as Democrat and 17% as Republican, with 61% not identifying with either party. This trend is indicative of a broader scepticism toward traditional political structures.
• Voter Turnout: While many Gen Z individuals are registered to vote, their actual turnout can be inconsistent. In the 2024 U.S. general election, only 48% of Gen Z respondents intended to vote, significantly lower than the national average. This disengagement is often attributed to disillusionment with the political process and doubts about the efficacy of their participation.
• Trust in Institutions: Trust in institutions varies among Gen Z across different regions. In South Africa, despite economic and social challenges, Gen Z’s active participation in social change initiatives reflects a degree of trust in collective action. In contrast, in the United States, there is a notable decline in trust toward institutions like the Supreme Court and the police among Gen Z.

Conclusion

Gen Z’s political opinions are shaped by a complex interplay of economic concerns, digital media influence, and active engagement in social issues. Their reliance on non-traditional information sources and their progressive stance on social and economic policies distinguish them from earlier generations. As they continue to mature politically, understanding these influences is crucial for policymakers and political organizations aiming to engage with this dynamic cohort effectively