DP4 participation crisis Flashcards
what is anti-politics and what is it caused by?
anti-politics is often used to describe the distrust of politicians, dislike of parties, disaffection with democracy. its caused by complacency in rich western unions, a lack of interest in political institutions and voters not being commited to any party.
what evidence of falling participation in uk elections is there?
there was 69% turnout in 2017, then decreasing to 67.3% in 2019, and further dropping to an estimated 60% in the 2024 general election, the lowest since 2001. even worse in referendums only 42% in 2011 referendum
further evidence for falling participation?
party membership at its lowest since the 1980’s with fewer party activists, leading to difficulties in recruiting candidates locally.
public trust in politicians has been undermined by scandals e.g multiple Conservative MPs, including Prime Minister Boris Johnson, were found to have attended parties at Downing Street during COVID-19 lockdowns, breaching their own government’s restrictions.
voting registration is lower amongst young people
what is evidence for positive participation in the uk politics?
the increased youth engagement in recent elections, with a notable rise in younger voters in 2017 and 2019.
the rise of grassroots movements and activism, such as Extinction Rebellion and Black Lives Matter UK, indicates a more engaged public. additionally, the high turnout in the 2016 EU referendum (72%) shows a strong interest in key political decisions.
further evidence for positive political participation?
the number and membership of pressure groups has increased suggesting participation has increased.
total of 52k petitions on goverment website in 2024 (steady increase over the years) 50k in 2023 47k in 2022 46k in 2021
using social media to engage with MPs commentators and journalists
