Lecturers from the Faculty of Communication Sciences, Padjadjaran University, have once again achieved academic success through the publication of Scopus-indexed research in the internationally renowned journal, International Journal of Adolescence and Youth. The article, “Political Communication Preferences of Generation Z in West Java: Insights from an Explanatory Sequential Study,” was written by Evie Ariadne Shinta Dewi, Zuhairi Sanofi, Kunto Adi Wibowo, and Hadi S. Arifin.
This research highlights how Generation Z in West Java, representing more than 20% of first-time voters in the 2024 Election, accesses and verifies political information in the digital era. Through a survey of 1,905 respondents and focus group discussions (FGDs), the research found that social media, particularly Instagram, is Gen Z’s primary channel for obtaining political information. The visual, interactive, and fast-paced nature of this platform aligns with their digital lifestyle.
Interestingly, however, although Gen Z tends to be passive in direct political discussions, they demonstrate a critical attitude towards the sources of information they consume and tend to verify information through discussions with friends or family. This finding emphasizes the importance of relevant and credible digital media-based political education.
This research is a concrete contribution from Unpad to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. By strengthening the political literacy of the younger generation, this research plays a role in building inclusive and democratic institutions—in line with the values of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, particularly in the areas of research and community service.
“Generation Z is not apathetic; they simply need an approach that suits their digital lifestyle,” said Evie Ariadne, the lead researcher.
This article is open-access on the official Taylor & Francis website:
https://doi.org/10.1080/02673843.2025.2512841
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