Youth Engagement in Politics Discussion

Sep 22, 2024

Notes on Rice with Potato Episode Featuring MP

Introduction

  • Host welcomes the audience back to another episode of Rice with Potato.
  • Special guest: a Member of Parliament (MP).
  • Discussion focuses on voting, politics, and the role of youth.

First Voting Experience

  • Host's Background:

    • Excited about voting as a first-time voter.
    • Received voter ID and feels ready to participate.
  • Guest's Background:

    • Describes voting in her family as a festival-like event.
    • Remembers waiting eagerly for her first vote.
    • Voting day was filled with excitement but done quickly.

Youth and Political Engagement

  • Current Youth's Political Health:

    • Youth divided into two sections:
      • Apolitical: Many young people are indifferent or uninterested in politics.
      • Political: Some are very engaged and outspoken, especially influenced by social media.
  • Importance of Awareness:

    • Youth must be aware of social and political issues (e.g., climate change).
    • Politics impacts every aspect of life, including education and rights.

Role of Social Media

  • Impact on Politics:

    • Social media allows quick dissemination of information and mobilization.
    • There's a risk of misinformation while also enabling organization among like-minded individuals.
  • Example:

    • Guest shares experience of combating fake news regarding a health center construction.

Politics and Art

  • Connection Between Art and Politics:
    • Art inherently carries political messages.
    • The MP emphasizes that art cannot exist without politics.

Actors in Politics

  • Pipeline from Film to Politics:
    • Popularity of film stars translates into political success due to established public presence.
    • Politicians often use their celebrity status to engage with the public more effectively.

Identity and Gender

  • Women's Representation:
    • Women often face challenges in being recognized for their achievements; they are often seen through the lens of their relationships (e.g., a wife, daughter).
    • Breaking societal stereotypes is crucial for women's identity and representation in politics.

Education and Politics

  • Politics vs. Qualification:
    • The MP discusses the idea of a qualifying exam for politicians, noting that while education is important, it isn't the sole criterion for political qualification.
    • Empathy and understanding of issues can come from varied experiences.

Closing Thoughts

  • Advice for First-Time Voters:
    • Voters should think deeply about their beliefs and the future they envision for the country before voting.
    • The importance of being informed and making conscious choices in the voting process.

Final Remarks

  • Guest expresses gratitude for the conversation and emphasizes the importance of political engagement.
  • Host encourages viewers to vote and stay politically aware, especially among friends who may be apathetic.