The Gen Z Gender Divide in Political Behavior

Across Europe, a striking new phenomenon is emerging: young women and young men of Generation Z (16 to 30 years old) are increasingly drifting apart in their political choices and attitudes. This divide matters for Europe’s democratic future. It affects electoral dynamics, shapes debates on gender equality, and should inform the way progressive forces engage with youth.

This closed-door expert roundtable unveiled preliminary findings of the research project “EqualiZe”, a major new flagship initiative covering five EU countries – Germany, Greece, Poland, Spain and Sweden – led by FEPS in partnership with the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, ETERON, and national experts.

Drawing on cross-country surveys and attitudinal data, the project investigates the drivers of the Gen Z gender divide and its implications for democracy in the European Union.

For EU policymakers, this was a unique opportunity to connect cutting-edge research with the EU’s policy agenda. The discussion addressed how these divides may affect core EU priorities – from the forthcoming Gender Equality Strategy to discussions around the new EU Youth Strategy and the Union’s work on youth participation.

For more information about this project, please do not hesitate to contact Matteo Dressler, Policy Analyst on Democracy and Participation (matteo.dressler@feps-europe.eu)