Youth Engagement Rises, Women Underrepresented in Belgian Politics

The political landscape in Belgium is experiencing a notable shift, with the percentage of municipal council members under 35 more than doubling to over 15%, indicating increased youth engagement in local governance. This trend suggests that young politicians are not only running for office more but are also winning elections, potentially bringing fresh perspectives on critical issues such as education and climate change. Meanwhile, in India, the 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw a significant increase in female voter turnout, surpassing male turnout for the second time in history, although women's participation in political campaigns remains low due to various societal constraints. Despite the positive trend in voter turnout, women's representation in political positions like the Lok Sabha remains limited, highlighting ongoing challenges in achieving gender parity in politics. Both scenarios reflect a broader dialogue about the need for diverse representation in governance, encompassing age and gender dynamics. The rise of younger politicians in Belgium and increased female voter participation in India could indicate a gradual shift towards more inclusive political environments.