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Associational Membership as a Compensatory Resource: Political Participation Among Unemployed Youth in Lahore, Pakistan

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  • Maria Shahid,Usman Khalid

    (Department of Education, Universityof Education, Lahore.)

Abstract

Youth unemployment has been widely recognized as a barrier to political participation, as joblessness limits access to social networks, civic skills, and information channels essential for engagement. This study investigates the role of associational membership as a compensatory resource that mitigates the negative effects of unemployment on political participation among youth in Lahore, Pakistan. Data were collected through a structured survey of 400 unemployed individuals aged 18–29 and analyzed using multiple regression and interaction analyses. Findings indicate that prolonged unemployment is associated with reduced political participation; however, youth involved in political, civic, or religious/social associations demonstrate higher engagement, even under adverse employment conditions. Education further amplifies this effect, highlighting the interaction between human and social capital. These results underscore the importance of promoting youth involvement in associations to foster resilience and active citizenship, particularly in contexts characterized by high unemployment and limited welfare support. The study contributes to the literature by extending the compensatory resource framework to a South Asian context and provides actionable insights for policymakers and civil society actors seeking to enhance youth political engagement.

Suggested Citation

  • Maria Shahid,Usman Khalid, 2025. "Associational Membership as a Compensatory Resource: Political Participation Among Unemployed Youth in Lahore, Pakistan," Journal of International Relations and Social Dynamics, 50sea, vol. 4(2), pages 97-107, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:abq:jirsd1:v:4:y:2025:i:2:p:97-107
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    2. Li, Yaojun & Marsh, David, 2008. "New Forms of Political Participation: Searching for Expert Citizens and Everyday Makers," British Journal of Political Science, Cambridge University Press, vol. 38(2), pages 247-272, April.
    3. Matt Henn & Mark Weinstein & Sarah Forrest, 2005. "Uninterested Youth? Young People's Attitudes towards Party Politics in Britain," Political Studies, Political Studies Association, vol. 53, pages 556-578, October.
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