translated from Spanish: Without the young, never again

When referring to young people in politics, it is very complex to counteract the predominant discourse that points to their remoteness with the active and electoral participation in these processes, however, to this discourse it is relevant to add the importance of the participation of this age group. Majority electoral participation gives us a legitimacy superior to the action of the State, public decisions and action of elected authorities.
In this quest for greater electoral legitimacy, young people are fundamental. In this regard, the recent elections of mayors show us the confidence that citizens give to young people to lead the municipalities, reflected in the cases of Maipú, Ñuñoa, Santiago, San Joaquín and Viña del Mar, among others. Likewise, the electoral participation of young people in the elections of the plebiscite of entry of the new constitution and in the election of the constituents, showed a break in the trend of lower youth participation. Today, young people could participate more and maintain this positive trend, having an important influence on the results of the electoral processes.
But what are the factors that could favour this participation of young people. A first approach is the greater competitiveness of the processes, since the capacity for replacement and replacement affects the competitiveness of the elections and this situation can make their participation more attractive. Also the ease of registration of candidates or, in other words, the elimination of barriers to entry for the participation of candidates, coming from forms of civil organization other than parties, which gives greater possibilities for active participation of young people.
On the other hand, the incorporation of adjustment mechanisms into the electoral process, such as parity, corrects inequalities and increases the possibilities of incorporating other figures into politics. Finally, the possibility of financing electoral campaigns to independent groups allows territorial organizations, environmentalists or social movements to participate in better conditions.
Therefore, measures of inclusion, elimination of barriers and corrective measures that incorporate various sectors are fertile ground to maintain and improve the political and electoral participation of the young people of our country, which is necessary in politics and, above all, for an inclusive Chile.
 
The content of this opinion column is the sole responsibility of its author, and does not necessarily reflect the editorial line or position of El Mostrador.

Original source in Spanish

Related Posts

Add Comment