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Too young to party, ready to say enough? Youth turnout and the rise of Chega in Portugal

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  • Patrício Costa
  • Carlos Jalali
  • Patrícia Silva

Abstract

This article investigates youth turnout and voting behaviour in Portugal in the new millennium. Using data from eight legislative elections and employing logistic regression models and multiple correspondence analysis, we explore how age, socioeconomic factors, and political preferences influence youth voting. While turnout of youth is consistently lower, the generational gap has remained stable, challenging the idea of a widening generational divide. We identify life-cycle effects, with participation increasing with age. Cluster analysis reveals marked intra-group differences: socioeconomic integration, especially higher education and active employment, increases the likelihood of voting, whereas political dissatisfaction and socioeconomic disengagement correlate with abstention. Yet discontent can also mobilise participation: in 2024, it was a key driver of youth support for the populist radical-right Chega.

Suggested Citation

  • Patrício Costa & Carlos Jalali & Patrícia Silva, 2026. "Too young to party, ready to say enough? Youth turnout and the rise of Chega in Portugal," South European Society and Politics, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 31(2), pages 209-239, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:fsesxx:v:31:y:2026:i:2:p:209-239
    DOI: 10.1080/13608746.2025.2581969
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