African Inequality Studies (Interdisciplinary - Econ/Social/Political) | 16 September 2008
Youth Identity and Political Engagement in Moroccan Urban Areas: A Survey Analysis
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Abstract
Youth in urban Morocco face unique challenges related to identity formation and political engagement, highlighting the need for a comprehensive understanding of these factors. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a quantitative survey with over 500 participants aged 18-29 from various socio-economic backgrounds, complemented by qualitative interviews to explore deeper insights into youth narratives and political motivations. The findings indicate that youth identity significantly influences their political participation, particularly those who perceive themselves as part of a distinct urban Moroccan culture show higher engagement in civic activities. This research contributes to the literature on youth politics by providing nuanced understanding of how cultural identity and socioeconomic factors interact to shape political behaviour. Policy makers should consider integrating cultural heritage education into existing civic programmes, as it appears to positively impact youth engagement in urban Moroccan communities.