Youth political participation and engagement at local level in Sweden

There is a growing research interests in youth political participation and engagement at local level. Youth participation in local politics and municipal policy formation reinforces civic values, teaches democracy and creates better citizens, resulting in better local communities. According to research studies, these effects are evident in Sweden. Moreover, the youth civic engagement and political participation are not only youth policy priorities, but also a part of political tradition and specifi c legacy. On the other hand, the Swedish municipalities are facing many challenges for creating, integrate and expand opportunities for young people’s political participation in decision-making. This article contributes empirical knowledge about the change motives that direct young people’s political participation in decision-making at the municipal level. The article is based on individual and focus group interviews with young Swedes living in two Sweden municipalities.