FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out), precariousness and a fear of making mistakes explain youth abstention better than apathy. A lack of credibility in politics pushes them away from the democratic centre and drives them towards populism.
Young people haven't fled politics. It's politics that's the risk
Sunday, 1 February 2026RSS
Context & Explainers
Populism is a political style that frames politics as a struggle between 'the people' and a corrupt elite, often using simple messaging, charismatic leaders and direct appeals to public sentiment; it can appear on both the left and right. It matters for expats because populist rhetoric or governments can drive quick policy shifts on immigration, taxation and business regulation, so monitoring election campaigns and major reforms helps anticipate changes that could affect residency, work or services.
Abstention is when eligible voters choose not to vote; it is usually reported as the percentage of registered voters who do not cast a ballot. A falling abstention rate can change electoral outcomes and boost the perceived legitimacy of the result, so a predicted drop — including among younger voters — matters for how parties and candidates plan campaigning and turnout efforts.
