What's Happening?
UNESCO is seeking an expert to conduct a landscape analysis for a global study titled 'In the minds of Gen Z: Understanding today's citizens.' This research project aims to explore the phenomena influencing the civic and political participation of Generation
Z. The selected consultant will be responsible for undertaking state-of-the-art research, identifying additional contributors, and writing the full manuscript of the analysis. The study will delve into central questions such as what motivates and affects Gen Z's civic and political actions, how to understand their diverse aspirations and values, and whether new forms of politics are emerging. The analysis will be structured around five interconnected categories: Identities, Experiences, Relationships, Action, and Context. The temporal scope for empirical data will primarily cover the period between 2017 and 2025. The expert is expected to have a PhD in social and political sciences or related fields, with a minimum of five years of research experience in youth political and civic participation, including at least one year focused on Generation Z. The contract duration for this consultancy is three months, with the work location being remote.
Why It's Important?
This UNESCO initiative is significant for policymakers and societal understanding as it seeks to provide tangible policy orientations to recognize, support, and harness Gen Z's contributions. By understanding the motivations behind their civic and political engagement, societies can better engage with this generation as they redefine social norms and address contemporary challenges. The study's findings could influence educational curricula, youth engagement programs, and public policy frameworks aimed at fostering more inclusive and effective participation from young people. For the U.S., where Gen Z represents a growing demographic and political force, insights from this global study could inform strategies for civic education, voter engagement, and addressing issues pertinent to younger generations. Businesses and organizations also stand to benefit by gaining a deeper understanding of Gen Z's values and how these influence their consumer behavior, workforce expectations, and social activism, potentially leading to more effective engagement strategies and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
What's Next?
The application deadline for the expert position is July 9, 2026. Following the selection of the expert, the three-month contract will commence, during which the landscape analysis and the initial draft of the study will be produced. UNESCO will then integrate peer review inputs and finalize the publication. The project is guided by an Expert Group of eight scholars from various UNESCO regions, ensuring a comprehensive global perspective. The final global study is intended to provide policymakers with actionable insights and inspire further research on Gen Z's civic and political actions. The findings are expected to be disseminated to relevant stakeholders, including governments, educational institutions, and youth organizations, to facilitate the implementation of supportive policies and programs. Future steps may also involve follow-up discussions, workshops, or pilot programs based on the study's recommendations to test and implement new approaches to youth engagement.
Beyond the Headlines
The study's focus on Gen Z's civic and political participation extends beyond immediate policy implications, touching upon broader societal shifts. It implicitly acknowledges the evolving nature of civic engagement in the digital age, where traditional forms of participation may be supplemented or replaced by online activism, social media movements, and new forms of community organizing. The research could highlight how global events, technological advancements, and changing social values are shaping a generation's approach to governance and collective action. Furthermore, by exploring 'new kinds of politics,' the study may shed light on emerging democratic practices, challenges to established political systems, and the potential for youth-led innovation in addressing complex global issues like climate change, social justice, and economic inequality. This deeper understanding could foster a re-evaluation of how democratic institutions adapt to the demands and participation styles of future generations, potentially leading to more dynamic and inclusive governance models.
