Youth Political Participation in Conventional Forms in Albania 2011-2021

Abstract

Looking into the conventional forms of political participation in Albania, this paper analyzes the level of political decision-making participation of youth in this country in the period 2011-2021. The main focus is mapping the level of engagement of young Albanians into conventional politics, such as in the main political parties of Albania (Socialist Party, Democratic Party and Socialist Movement for Integration), youth forums, parliament, local and central government bodies. The result shows that has been a slight improvement in numbers and quality of youth in traditional politic, in terms of youth leader election, political activities and some presence of the young politicians in key political bodies of political parties and governance. The paper concludes that this positive inclination is still low in percentage compared to the old politicians in political leading positions, decision-making positions and in main political parties’ structure. The low level of participation of young people in politics hinders them from the proactive role and their involvement in the traditional political structure of the country.

Received: 10 March 2022 / Accepted: 25 April 2022 / Published: 5 May 2022