Global Shapers Impact Report 2025

Around the world, young people remain significantly underrepresented in politics and formal political institutions. Despite comprising over half of the global population, only 2.8% of parliamentarians are under 30 years old, with the average age in parliament sitting at 51.9 Alarmingly, less than 1% of parliamentarians are in their twenties, and in a third of countries globally, eligibility for parliamentary candidacy only begins at age 25.10 Moreover, less than one-third of countries consult young people when preparing national development plans, sidelining a significant portion of the populace in decision-making processes that directly affect their futures. This lack of representation contributes to a pervasive sense of disillusionment. A total of 84% of young people describe politicians as self- interested, while 75% perceive them as corrupt. In this context, it is no surprise that 82% believe political systems are in dire need of reform11 in order to be fit for purpose in the future. This sentiment underscores a generation’s frustration with a political landscape that seems detached from their realities. Many young people note intergenerational ideological political divides and express frustration over harmful stereotypes, feeling that older generations dismiss their leadership potential and the validity of their voting concerns.Young people appear to be unified in their call for greater representation – advocating for lowered voting ages, the removal of systemic barriers to political engagement, and the formalization of youth representation through recognized bodies and designated youth offices. They also navigate complex ideological divides within a generation, however, which are important to recognize. Emerging research indicates a growing gap in political beliefs between young men and women. Young women increasingly identify as more progressive while young men are gravitating towards more conservative or traditional views. This divergence is particularly pronounced on issues of gender and social equality and is gaining resonance on a global scale.12 For meaningful change to occur and greater political representation to be achieved, it is therefore imperative that the diverse perspectives of young people are not only acknowledged but actively integrated into the decision-making processes that will shape their future. Young people are not a homogenous group – they have diverse lived experiences and concerns, and these divergences must be meaningfully recognized and included.1.4 Political outlook: achieving greater representation The importance of diverse, inclusive and representative youth participation in governance is nowhere more evident than in addressing the climate crisis. By evolving our global democratic processes to uplift youth voices and lived experiences, we gain the tools necessary to shape a just and equitable future in a rapidly warming world. Natalie Montecino, Curator, Denver Hub, USA 15 15 15 Global Shapers Impact Report