Dear John,

Our whole team was shocked when we saw this recent poll ([link removed]) . A majority (52%) of Gen Z (those aged 13-27) said that “the UK would be a better place if a strong leader was in charge who does not have to bother with parliament and elections”.

While we should always exercise caution with polls like these, the numbers are undeniably striking. It’s a sign that the UK’s future generations are giving up on democratic ideals.

For those of us who dedicate our time to restoring democracy, it’s incredibly demoralising. If no one is around to advocate democratic values going forward, our societies will inevitably succumb to the far-right strongmen rising around the world.

Looking further into the data, however, these numbers start to make more sense.

Gen Z exhibit the highest levels of distrust in institutions ([link removed]) of any generation – especially in Government, Parliament, and political parties. Polls show that young people feel they simply don’t have a say ([link removed]) in our political system on the issues that will affect them most (eg. climate change). They’ve become increasingly depressed about an economy that they say isn’t working for them ([link removed]) , and that they don’t think our political system can solve.

The takeaway from this poll, then, is not that we should give up hope and concede to the strongmen. Young people’s distrust in democracy is not just a natural phenomenon beyond our control. Britain, through its neglect of democratic reform, has made this happen.

I like to say that democracy is a verb. It’s something we have to actively build and uphold. When the system has been bought up by big donors, when results are distorted by First-Past-The-Post, when big tech divides us and pits us against each other online, it’s a sign that the political system has fundamentally broken.

As an older Gen Z myself, the lesson is clear. This poll shows that a democratic revival is more important now than ever. We need to prove to Gen Z that an overhauled democracy can be something better. That a real and fair democracy can improve their livelihoods and actually involve them in crucial conversations about the future.

Of course, the reality is that young people aren't really rejecting democracy – they're rejecting a system that has failed them. By championing genuine democratic reform, we can show Gen Z that their voices matter and their participation is essential. Together, we can build a political system that truly represents everyone, tackles the pressing challenges of our time, and proves that democracy, when done right, remains humanity's best path forward.

All the best,

Matt

Matt Gallagher

Communications Officer
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