Exploring the concerns, priorities, and political engagement of Canadian youth aged 15 to 30.

May 2, 2019

On behalf of 10 national youth-serving organizations, Abacus Data conducted a national public opinion survey of a representative sample of 1,000 youth aged 15 to 30.

Our study found several key issues of concern among youth, and dissatisfaction with the way things are, but also motivation to change the status quo, influence key issues and support others around them to make a difference.

To read the full English report, click here.

Pour lire le rapport complet en français, cliquez ici.

Here’s are the highlights of what we found:

While there is general optimism about their day to day lives youth feel there are still societal barriers to success.

85% of youth agree there is still a lot of discrimination in Canada. There is also a recognition of economic inequality with 80% saying it’s harder to get ahead today than in the past. One in four don’t believe that everyone who works hard can make it.

Youth are very concerned about the rising cost of living, specifically housing, and climate change.

Nearly all youth say the rising cost of housing is a serious issue. There is also a widely held belief that climate change is a serious issue.

There is also a strong sense of disconnect between government and citizens: youth feel that when the average citizen speaks the government doesn’t listen, and when the government speaks, the average citizen doesn’t understand.

Nearly three-quarters of youth say politics and government are too complicated to understand what is going on. And 61% say people like them don’t have a say about what the government does.

There are three clear segments of youth related to youth engagement: those who are engaged in their communities, those who have some engagement, and youth who are completely disengaged.

Each of these segments has clear, distinct levels of involvement in their community, understanding of the political system, and drive to get involved.

Regardless of their level of engagement, youth recognize the power of their voice.

Just under three-quarters of all youth believe that if young people show up and vote the politicians will take notice. Even among disengaged youth, the majority holds this view.

About half have tried to convince their parents/caregivers/friends to change their opinions about an issue.

Issues like the climate, education, and diversity are key conversation topics between youth and their parents/caregivers, whereas youth tend to discuss gender, education and general politics with their peers.

UPSHOT

Young people are united by several key issues impacting their daily lives, and frustrations they have with the political system’s lack of addressing these issues. Only one in five Canadians aged 15 to 30 are actively engaged in public affairs, but a majority still see value in being involved in and engaging with the political process and recognize the power of their collective voice.

In the next coming months, youth will have an opportunity to use this voice, engage in public life and put their issues on the agenda. We all need to work hard to make sure youth recognize the full potential of their voice, so youth can begin to shape our country for the better now and in the future.

METHODOLOGY

The web survey was conducted with 1,000 Canadian youth aged 15 to 30 from March 29 to April 5, 2019. A random sample of panelists was invited to complete the survey from a set of blended panels.

The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 3.1%, 19 times out of 20.

The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched the target population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

ABOUT ABACUS DATA

We are the only research and strategy firm that helps organizations respond to the disruptive risks and opportunities in a world where demographics and technology are changing more quickly than ever.

We are an innovative, fast-growing public opinion and marketing research consultancy. We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail and exceptional value.

Contact us with any questions.

Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.

Don’t miss any of our releases and receive our weekly “Worth a Look” newsletter by signing up for our email list. We promise no more than 2 emails a week… unless there’s something really important we want to share.