Work

‘Schools Can Do So Much More!’— Perspectives on Democracy and Education From Youth in Challenging Contexts Across Europe

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT This paper explores the perspectives on democracy and education of young people aged 16 to 18 growing up in challenging contexts across six EU member states: Austria, Croatia, Finland, France, Ireland and the Netherlands. Fifty‐one participants took part in focus groups; these participants included young people from the outer borders of the European Union, metropolitan areas and those with experiences of legal trouble, substitute care or gender stereotyping. Analysis of their responses provides unique insights into how these young people—who may be considered doubly marginalized within contemporary representative democracies—perceive democracy in general and within schools. Results indicate that their understanding of democracy entails three core principles: freedom of choice and expression, equality of opportunity and collaboration. Across all settings, participants do not perceive formal education as a context in which everyday democracy takes place, which in turn clearly affects their democratic voice and agency.

Source: European Journal of Education

DOI: 10.1111/ejed.70899

Authors: Boris Jokić, Nikola Baketa, Zrinka Ristić Dedić

Institution: Institute for Social Research

Language: English

Topic: Citizenship Education and Democracy

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,350