Political awareness refers to the political knowledge and understanding that individuals possess. This awareness often varies from person to person.
Traditionally, it was believed that only citizens eligible to vote—those above the age of 18—needed to be politically aware. However, in recent years, there has been a remarkable rise in political consciousness among members of Generation Z, commonly known as Gen Z, who were born after 1999.
Once dismissed as a “good-for-nothing” generation, more interested in video games and social media platforms like Roblox, Gen Z has proven these stereotypes wrong. In fact, they have become a driving force behind major political transformations in South Asia.
A striking example is the July Revolution of 2024 in Bangladesh, which led to the ousting of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina—a movement largely initiated and led by Gen Z, which is sometimes cited as the first successful Gen Z revolution in the world.
Similarly, in Nepal, widespread dissatisfaction among the youth over corruption, unemployment, and economic inequality triggered a political revolution that resulted in the removal of prime minister KP Sharma Oli.
Interestingly, reports suggest that the decision to select Nepal’s interim prime minister was even discussed in an online Discord community, highlighting how digital platforms have become spaces for political coordination and activism. The wave of political revolution led by youth hs been sweeping over in Madagascar and Morocco.
These events demonstrate how today’s youth are unafraid to stand up for justice and demand accountability. While past revolutions—such as the fall of Muammar Gaddafi—were primarily driven by older citizens, today’s movements increasingly rely on the energy, innovation, and digital fluency of Gen Z.
Beyond South Asia, Gen Z has also played a decisive role in shaping global politics. During the 2024 US Presidential Election, young voters became such a significant force that even Donald Trump turned to Joe Rogan’s podcast, a platform with a large teenage and young adult audience, to appeal to them.
This heightened political awareness is closely linked to the influence of digital media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, which have transformed how young people access political information and engage with civic issues. Through these platforms, Gen Z has developed a stronger understanding of elections, governance, and social justice movements.
In the late 2010s, Gen Z was widely regarded as a progressive generation, known for supporting causes such as gun control, climate change mitigation, and social equality. Most members leaned toward Democratic and left-leaning ideals, earning the label “the most progressive generation ever.” However, in recent years, research has revealed a growing political gender gap within Gen Z: young men are increasingly drawn to conservatism and right-wing populism, while young women remain more aligned with progressive and left-wing movements. This divide is especially noticeable in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, the United States, and South Korea.
Although the causes of the protests are different in each country, they have generally been in response to inequality, declining standards of living, corruption, democratic backsliding and authoritarianism, sectarianism, the extreme rise of radicalism, and most importantly, dissatisfaction with the ruling government.
Ultimately, political awareness among students and young people is crucial. As the future leaders and human capital of a nation, their understanding of political systems, governance, and social issues will determine the strength and direction of democracy itself. By staying informed and engaged,
Gen Z ensures that their voices are heard and that society evolves in line with their values and aspirations. Encouraging this involvement not only fosters their personal growth but also strengthens the democratic fabric of the nation worldwide.
Debradita Paul is a student at the Adamjee Cantonement College. He is interested in geopolitics, current affairs, and international relations.