UK Youth Poll Reveals Gen Z’s Concerns About Democracy, Economy, and Political Reform

New findings show young people overwhelmingly support democracy but feel it is under strain, with economic anxieties and a desire for political change dominating their priorities.

63% of young people in the UK believe democracy is 'in trouble,' and 72% view politics as 'too divided,' though 57% still prefer democracy over dictatorship.
Economic concerns, including financial worries, work pressures, and job insecurity, are the leading sources of anxiety for Gen Z, far outweighing cultural or social issues.
Young people want a more open and honest political culture, with calls for affordable housing, job security, and healthcare to address their basic needs.
The poll highlights the diversity within Gen Z, with significant differences in attitudes based on class, education, gender, ethnicity, and region, challenging monolithic generational stereotypes.
Despite systemic challenges, nearly two-thirds of young people are optimistic about their personal futures, with 63% describing themselves as 'rather or very happy.'