ParticipACTION – National Level Assessment Report

Young people in Cyprus are not disinterested in civic and democratic life. Rather, they face structural barriers and limited institutional responsiveness that prevent them from engaging meaningfully and making their voices heard. 

As part of the ParticipACTION project, Generation for Change CY carried out a National Level Assessment exploring the current state of youth civic knowledge and engagement in Cyprus. The report brings forward the perspectives of young people from diverse backgrounds, highlighting both the obstacles they face and their proposals for more inclusive, accessible, and representative democratic processes.

The research shows that low levels of formal political participation among youth are linked to gaps in civic education, limited trust in institutions, and cultural and legal barriers, particularly affecting third-country nationals and young women, rather than to political apathy.  At the same time, the research revealed a vibrant landscape of youth activism and advocacy in areas ranging from environmental protection to anti-war movements, with social media serving as a key platform for mobilization, information sharing, and community building. Across the board, young people expressed a strong desire for systematic and higher-quality civic education in schools, more digitally responsive institutional communication, and targeted support for migrant youth, particularly by facilitating access to education. Addressing these barriers and recognizing the diverse ways young people are already active, whether through grassroots action or digital platforms, is essential for bridging the gap between institutions and the new generation in Cyprus.

ParticipACTION is co-funded by the European Union.