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The Stonar Way 31.01.25

The Stonar Way 31.01.25

Matthew Way discusses the importance of teaching about democratic participation, fake news and misinformation.

As a History teacher, I have taught many cohorts of pupils about the growth of democracy at home and abroad from the Magna Carta to the French Revolution, from the US constitution to women’s suffrage and beyond. I have this history in my mind as I read and watch the news across the world and reflect on the start of a new administration in America and reactions to the recent plane crash in Washington and as we hear about the rise of the far right in German elections. In 2024, over 1.7 billion people across more than 70 countries participated in national elections, marking a significant year for global democracy. The year was characterised by widespread dissatisfaction with incumbent leaders and centrist parties, leading to a rise in support for radical and populist movements.

Generation Z, born between the mid-to-late 1990s and early 2010s, has grown up in a world shaped by rapid technological advancements, political upheaval, and social activism. As digital natives, they have unprecedented access to information and misinformation, which has significantly influenced their attitude toward democracy.

Unlike previous generations, Gen Z tends to be sceptical of traditional political institutions. They have witnessed political gridlock, corruption, and the erosion of democratic norms in many parts of the world. As a result, many express disillusionment with the effectiveness of representative democracy.

However, this scepticism does not necessarily translate into political apathy. On the contrary, Gen Z is highly engaged in social and political issues, particularly concerning climate change, racial justice, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ rights. They use social media platforms to mobilise, raise awareness, and pressure governments to act.

Despite their activism, voter turnout among Gen Z has historically been lower than older generations. Many feel that electoral politics does not adequately address their concerns or that their voices are ignored. If Gen Z loses faith in elections and governmental institutions, democracy will be weakened, as lower voter turnout and reduced participation in governance may allow less democratic forces to gain power.

Gen Z are the pupils in our secondary schools. It is, therefore, incumbent on all of us, parents and schools, to ensure that we talk about and teach about misinformation, fake news and the importance of democratic participation, including through the electoral process.

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