Leading Through Polarisation: Youth Leadership in Politically Uncertain Times

Erasmus Generation Meeting, Split, Croatia, 16 - 19 April 2026, (Unpublished)

Publication Type: Conference Paper / Unpublished
City: Split
Country: Croatia
Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study explores how youth organisations navigate increasing political polarisation, social tension, and value divergence within both broader society and their internal communities. In such contexts, young leaders are frequently required to manage conflict, facilitate difficult conversations, and preserve organisational cohesion while remaining committed to shared values. Drawing on experience-based learning and reflective dialogue practices, the study examines how leadership experiences in politically polarised environments contribute to the development of key youth leadership competences, including value-based leadership, emotional governance, conflict sensitivity, and responsible decision-making. The paper highlights the role of mutual learning and reflective practice in strengthening leadership capacity under conditions of uncertainty and social fragmentation.