Processes of political (and civic) engagement and participation in the London area: views from British Bangladeshi and Congolese youth

Abstract

This conference paper explores the views of minority youth in relation to modes of belonging and processes of political and civic engagement. We are particularly interested in the ways in which minority status (in relation to age, gender, ethnicity and religion) may relate to the understanding and use of ‘traditional’ and new forms of political participation and civic engagement. Drawing on exploratory focus groups organised among young British Bangladeshis and Congolese in London, we wish to question the relationship between understanding/perceptions of citizenship, opportunities and resources to participate, and the potential influence of a range of sources of civic and political information.</p