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‘The Influence of Government Image on Youth Party Membership : A Case Study of Die Linke's Membership Growth in the preface of the 2025 Bundestagswahl in Germany.’
Wenning, Maximilian (2025) ‘The Influence of Government Image on Youth Party Membership : A Case Study of Die Linke's Membership Growth in the preface of the 2025 Bundestagswahl in Germany.’.
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| Abstract: | Germany experiences growing political dissatisfaction among young citizens, characterised by declining trust in government institutions and perceived democratic deficits. Facing that, the left-wing party Die Linke has recorded a notably growth in its party membership, listing 23000 new members leading up to the 2025 Bundestagswahl. However, it remains unclear how youth perceptions of governmental legitimacy and trust specifically influence young people decision to engage politically through Die Linke. This exploratory qualitative study aims to investigate this relationship by focusing explicitly on how young Germans’ perceptions of government trustworthiness and democratic legitimacy motivate their involvement with Die Linke. Theoretically grounded in Rosanvallon’s 'Counter-Democracy' and Norris’s "Democratic Deficit," the research will explore how dissatisfaction and participatory opportunities intersect with youth political engagement. Employing a qualitative case study design, data collection involves semi structured interviews with young Die Linke members to understand their perceptions, experiences, and motivations. Additionally, document analysis of Die Linke’s manifestos and media communications will clarify how the party strategically addresses youth discontent and democratic criticism. Ultimately, this study contributes nuanced insights into youth political behaviour, democratic legitimacy, and the rising appeal of alternative political participation among young citizens in contemporary Germany. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 88 social and public administration |
| Programme: | Management Society and Technology BSc (56654) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/107446 |
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