Political participation of youth in the context of media technology development: forms, motives, and barriers

The transformation of political participation among youth under the influence of media technologies is one of the key challenges of modern democracy. The relevance of the study is dictated by the need to understand the digital mechanisms of civic engagement and to create conditions for the conscious involvement of young people in public processes. This article examines the main motives, forms, and barriers that youth face when engaging in politics through digital channels. The article emphasizes the necessity of a comprehensive approach to address these issues, including improving digital access, enhancing media literacy, and creating safe platforms for political activism. The research is based on materials such as scientific articles and books on political theory, social policy, and digital and media technologies, as well as statistical data and studies. The authors employ methods such as qualitative research methods (content analysis), ethnographic methods (observing online communication and discussions on digital platforms), and methods of analysis and synthesis. Youth political participation in the context of media technology development is an important and multifaceted process that is actively evolving due to access to new technologies and digital platforms. The digital age has provided young people with new opportunities for engaging in political life, such as participating in online activism, digital petitions, public forums and discussions, as well as using social media to form and disseminate political ideas and organize protests. However, despite these opportunities, significant barriers exist that inhibit youth political activity. Thus, despite the existing challenges, digitalization and the development of new media technologies open new horizons for youth political activity. Provided that barriers are overcome and a supportive environment is created, youth can become an important engine of change, actively influencing the future of society and strengthening democratic processes.