The Role of Youth Activism in Shaping Public Policy: Mechanisms of Influence and Policy Impact Analysis

Abstract

This paper examines the role of youth activism in contemporary public policy formation, analyzing the mechanisms through which young activists influence policy agendas and outcomes. Drawing on political mobilization theory and policy process frameworks, this study investigates how youth movements translate social grievances into policy change across different issue domains. Through comparative analysis of climate activism, gun violence prevention, and education reform movements, the research identifies key factors that determine the policy impact of youth activism, including institutional access, coalition building, and strategic framing. Findings suggest that youth activism achieves greatest policy influence when movements combine insider advocacy with outsider pressure, maintain sustained engagement beyond initial mobilization, and successfully frame issues in terms of intergenerational justice. The study contributes to understanding of youth political participation and offers insights for both activists and policymakers regarding effective channels for youth voice in democratic governance.

• Youth activism - The primary subject of study
• Public policy - The main outcome/influence being examined
• Political participation - The theoretical framework and broader context
• Social movements - The methodological and theoretical approach used in analysis
• Intergenerational justice - A key conceptual theme that distinguishes youth activism from other forms of political engagement