Village and Development

Village and Development

Investigating Factors Affecting Political Participation of Rural Youth in Guilan Province (Case Study: Villages in the East of Guilan)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
,M.S Babapour Vajari 1
R. Esfanjari Kenari 2
A. Jansiz 3
1 MA in Rural Development, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran.
2 Assistant Professor, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran.
3 Associate Professor, Faculty of Political Science and International Relations, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran.
10.30490/rvt.2025.367374.1644
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Youth are a dynamic demographic with the potential to contribute significantly to various domains. Political engagement of rural youth is essential for societal development. This study aims to identify factors influencing political participation among rural youth in Guilan.
Materials and Methods
 This applied study uses a quantitative research methodology. A sample of 241 rural youth from eastern Guilan was selected. Two questionnaires were used: a political participation questionnaire and a questionnaire on factors influencing political participation. The questionnaires were validated and tested for reliability.
Results and Discussion
 Confirmatory Factor Analysis revealed that cultural-social, familial, individual, political, and economic factors significantly influence political participation. Cultural-social, political, and economic factors have a strong impact, while the individual and familial factors show moderate to weak effects.
Conclusions
 Rural youth engaged with IRIB, local leaders, and satisfied with government officials' performance exhibit higher political participation. Enhancing provincial broadcasting, reviving local institutions, and organizing meetings between leaders and youth can boost political participation among rural youth.
Keywords
Guilan, Political Development, Political Participation, Rural Sociology, Rural Youth
Subjects
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