This infographic looks at political participation and civic engagement among youth in Canada. It examines their voter turnout in federal, provincial and municipal elections. It also looks at non-electoral political activities such as expressing views on the Internet, signing petitions, and participating in marches and demonstrations. Lastly, it explores other aspects of civic engagement including participating in groups, organizations and associations and volunteering. Data are drawn from the 2020 General Social Survey (GSS) on Social Identity and the 2018 GSS on Giving, Volunteering and Participating.
Description - Portrait of youth in Canada: Political participation and civic engagement
Canadian youth are generally less likely to vote than older adults
| Voter turnout | 18 to 30 years | 31 to 46 years | 47 years and older |
|---|---|---|---|
| Last federal election (2019) | 80% | 86% | 90% |
| Last provincial election | 73% | 85% | 89% |
| Last municipal election | 53% | 68% | 78% |
However, many youth engage in non-electoral political activities
| Top non-electoral activities | Participation rate of youth aged 15 to 30 |
|---|---|
| Searched for information on a political issue | 67% |
| Signed an Internet petition | 48% |
| Boycotted or chose a product for ethical reasons | 37% |
| Expressed views on an issue through an Internet forum or news website | 24% |
| Wore a badge or T-shirt, or displayed a lawn sign in support or opposition of a political or social cause | 15% |
| Participated in a demonstration or march | 14% |
More than half of youth participate in sports or recreational activities
| Top 5 groups, organizations or associations | Participation rate of youth aged 15 to 30 |
|---|---|
| Sport or recreational organization | 53% |
| Cultural, educational or hobby organization | 34% |
| School group, neighbourhood, civic or community organization | 26% |
| Union or professional association | 24% |
| Religious-affiliated group | 17% |
The formal volunteer rate was 46% among youth 15 to 30 years of age, compared with 44% for those aged 31 to 46 and 38% among those 47 years and older.
Note: Unless otherwise specified, youth are defined as those 15 to 30 years old.
Source: Arriagada, P., F. Khanam and Y. Sano. 2022. “Political participation, civic engagement and caregiving among youth in Canada.” Portrait of Youth in Canada: Data Report. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 42-28-0001.
Contact information
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