Archipelagotimes.com – Understanding Politics Doesn’t Have to Be Old: A Guide to Democracy for Gen Z
“Politics is dirty” or “let the old man take care of it” — two sentences that are already stale, but we still hear them very often. In fact, even now, the younger generation—yes, Gen Z!—has the power to accelerate major changes in this country.
The problem is, many people feel that politics is complicated, full of drama, or not connected to daily life. In fact, you pay for coffee at a café, play TikTok, or complain about fuel prices—everything smells political.
Democracy Is Not Only at the Polling Station
Democracy is not just a vote once every five years. Democracy is about having a voice, and that voice can change a lot of things. You don’t have to wait until you’re in your 30s to start dating. Right now, in the all-digital era, you can:
Join the online petition
Explore social issues through X thread or TikTok
Join communities that care about the environment, human rights, or government transparency
Criticize policies through smart memes (as long as it’s not a hoax!)
You Have The Power, Don’t Waste It
The 2024 KPU data states that young voters (17-39 years old) are more than 50% of the total voters. Means? Our vote can really determine who sits in the House of Representatives or the Palace.
What if you’re apathetic and don’t care? Those seats will be filled by those who don’t know (or don’t care) about your future. You don’t want to, do you?
Politics Isn’t Just Om-Om on TV
Now, many young people are becoming digital activists, legislators, and even ministers. Politics is no longer the world of parents. It’s time for Gen Z to take the stage—become watchdogs, educational content creators, and even future leaders.
Start small:
Know what kind of record the party you are supporting.
Not just spreading news from WA family
Watching a political debate is like watching the ML tournament finals—it’s fun to know the game
So, what can you do from now on?
Follow educational accounts that discuss current issues.
Join political discussions or webinars – many are free.
Ask your friends for their opinions on public issues, start chatting from simple things. Vote and encourage people around you to join as well
Democracy is not about who is the loudest, but who is not.
So, Gen Z, instead of just being a spectator—why not play on the democracy stage?