CPD1501
OCT/NOV EXAM 2024
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: OCTOBER 2024
, CPD1501
October/November Exam Portfolio 2024
Unique No.
DUE: 15 October 2024
Citizenship, Public Participation and Democracy
Question 1
1.1 Key factors contributing to low youth participation in the 2024 South African
elections
Disillusionment with politics
Many young people feel disconnected from the political system. They don’t
believe that voting will lead to any real changes. They see the same political
parties in power, often recycling the same leaders, and feel that their vote won't
make a difference in addressing issues like unemployment, crime, and inequality.
This sense of hopelessness makes them feel like voting is a waste of time.
Lack of trust in political leaders
Corruption scandals and poor governance have further eroded the trust that
young people have in political leaders. When they see politicians being involved
in corruption without facing serious consequences, it reduces their willingness to
participate in elections. For many, politics seems to benefit only the elite while
ordinary citizens, especially the youth, are left behind.
Economic challenges and unemployment
With South Africa facing high levels of youth unemployment, many young people
are more focused on surviving day-to-day than on participating in elections.
When they see no tangible improvement in their lives, they start to lose faith in
, the ability of the government to address their needs. As a result, they are less
motivated to vote.
Lack of political education and awareness
Some young people don’t fully understand how voting works or how it affects
their lives. Schools and other institutions don’t always provide enough education
about the importance of elections and civic responsibility. Without this
knowledge, it’s easy for youth to feel indifferent about participating.
Barriers to voter registration and accessibility
Some young people find it difficult to register or participate in the voting process
due to logistical issues, like not having the required identification or facing
difficulties in traveling to voting stations. These practical barriers discourage
many from taking part.
Social media influence and misinformation
Social media plays a huge role in shaping how young people think about politics.
Sometimes, social media spreads misinformation or portrays voting as
ineffective, which can discourage youth participation. In other cases, the focus on
entertainment and distractions makes politics seem less important or irrelevant.
Lack of role models and inspiration
When young people don’t see politicians or leaders who represent their interests
or come from their communities, they feel disconnected from the political
process. Without inspiring role models, it’s hard for them to believe that they can
make a difference through voting.
