The Role of Virtual Space in Political Activism and Electoral Participation of 1990s Youth: An Analysis of Changing Patterns of Political and Social Participation

Abstract

This study aims to examine the role of virtual space in political activism and electoral participation among Iranian youth born in the 1990s, analyzing the changes in political and social participation patterns influenced by social media platforms. This research utilized a qualitative methodology with semi-structured interviews as the primary data collection tool. A total of 24 participants from Tehran, all born in the 1990s, were selected through purposive sampling. The interviews focused on their experiences with political activism and electoral engagement through virtual platforms. Theoretical saturation was reached after 24 interviews. NVivo software was used for qualitative data analysis, employing open, axial, and selective coding to identify emerging themes and patterns. The findings revealed that social media has significantly transformed political participation among young Iranians. Participants reported that online platforms increased access to political information, facilitated political discussions, and enabled digital activism through campaigns, petitions, and hashtags. However, they also highlighted challenges such as government restrictions, censorship, misinformation, and algorithmic bias that shape political discourse. While many young people engage in virtual activism, some expressed skepticism regarding its real-world impact and emphasized the gap between online discourse and policy-making. Additionally, some participants noted a shift from traditional forms of political participation, such as street protests, to digital engagement. This study confirms that social media plays a pivotal role in shaping political activism and electoral engagement among Iranian youth. While it provides opportunities for mobilization and participation, challenges such as misinformation, censorship, and surveillance hinder its full potential. The findings suggest the need for further research on the long-term effects of digital political engagement and the development of educational programs to enhance critical media literacy among young users.