Young French-speaking Belgians feel "disconnected" from politics, according to a memorandum published by the non-profit Youth Forum.
The memorandum, entitled 'Being young in 2023', drew on a poll of over 1,000 respondents aged 16-30 in French-speaking Belgium. Far from adopting a passive stance, the youngsters pointed to the flaws in a system that no longer meets their expectations, suggesting they plan to reinvent it, as depicted in the report by the non-profit association.
The perceived opacity and complexity of various institutions, both Federal and European, further fuels this feeling. The participants concede that their trust in the political sphere is diminishing. This is the result of multiple factors, predominantly a heightened awareness of discrimination.
"All of us should have a right to housing and food, even if we do not work. Just enough to live," emphasised one respondent, aged 16. Many respondents pointed to the fact that violations of fundamental rights – such as the right to a decent life, to hospitality, a quality environment or rights of women and minority groups – are ever present in Belgium.
The sense of underrepresentation contributes to the young people's political disconnection. "I can't identify with political personalities, so I lose interest in what they do," another respondent, aged 23, admitted.
Regarding law enforcement and the justice system, young people remain critical of these institutions – particularly in the face of perceived "violence and racist or sexist tendencies within the police institution." Respondents advocated for "extended police training, improved victim support, and stricter internal control."
