Redefining Citizenship: Engaging Youth in Democracy

The Evolving Definition of a Good Citizen

What does it truly mean to be a "good citizen"? While traditional definitions often center on the basic requirements of following the "law of the land"—defined as the set of rules and laws existing in a country—and paying taxes, modern perspectives suggest a more proactive approach. As discussed in the BBC podcast, citizenship involves not just obedience, but active participation in improving one’s community. This shift is particularly vital given that young people today are increasingly disengaged, with many feeling ignored by those in power.

Addressing the Erosion of Trust

Bernardo Gonsalves, the founder of the Portuguese initiative MyPolis, highlights a critical issue facing modern democracies: the "erosion of trust." This term refers to the gradual weakening of public confidence in institutions such as the national parliament or the "government in office"—the administration currently in power. Gonsalves argues that if we fail to bridge the gap between democratic institutions and young citizens, the resulting disconnect poses a "very dangerous" threat to the future of democracy itself.

MyPolis: Bridging the Gap Through Practical Engagement

To combat this apathy, MyPolis facilitates council assemblies where children propose tangible improvements to their local school communities, ranging from fixing water fountains to modifying the curriculum. The project’s success stems from two key design choices:

1. Integration vs. Add-ons: Unlike initiatives that are merely an "add-on"—something extra tacked onto a project later rather than planned from the start—MyPolis is designed to be part of the national curriculum. This ensures that civic engagement is treated as a core component of education.
2. Direct Accountability: The project creates a rare opportunity for students to "take someone seriously" and be taken seriously in return. By forcing politicians to engage directly, the program helps students learn how to "pin someone down," an idiomatic expression meaning to force someone to explain their specific plans and intentions in detail.

The Historical Roots of Citizenship

The project draws its name from the ancient Greek word polis, which means "city." It was in these ancient city-states that the foundational concepts of citizenship were born. By mirroring real-world political activities—such as voting and holding representatives accountable—MyPolis is effectively preparing the next generation to reclaim these ancient democratic values.

Conclusion: A Global Model

The success of MyPolis in Portugal has already inspired similar programs in Italy, Hungary, and Mozambique. By moving beyond the passive interpretation of following laws and encouraging active, informed participation, these initiatives are successfully developing the active citizens of the future. The lesson is clear: to restore faith in democratic institutions, we must provide young people with meaningful, structured ways to influence the world around them.