Neither Kaczyński, nor Tusk. Who gets the vote of the Polish youth?
An interview with Paweł Marczewski, sociologist and head of research at the ideaForum at the Batory Foundation. Interviewer: Iwona Reichardt
September 26, 2025 -
Iwona Reichardt
Paweł Marczewski
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InterviewsIssue 5 2025Magazine
Photo: Anna Liminowicz / Stefan Batory Foundation
IWONA REICHARDT: “Disappointed with the state, satisfied with life” – this is the title of a recent report published by your organization, the Stefan Batory Foundation. It explores the political preferences of Polish youth. Why did you decide to focus on young voters in such an ageing society as Poland?
PAWEŁ MARCZEWSKI: It is true that young voters are not the largest cohort in Poland’s electorate. And their share will only decline in the coming years. Yet, our research – and recent election campaigns – show that this group has become increasingly aware of its position. Young people recognize that, because they are outnumbered, they must mobilize if they want their voices heard. We saw this clearly in the last presidential election. Youth turnout in both rounds exceeded 70 per cent – even higher than in the 2023 parliamentary elections. So, although they are not the most numerous, young voters are politically engaged. We wanted to understand their political preferences for a few reasons. First, they offer a glimpse into the future of Polish politics. We saw them in large numbers at campaign rallies, and we know their views will help shape Poland’s political landscape. Second, we wanted to learn about their motivation. If their numbers cannot decide an election result, why are they so determined to vote? Do they use voting to make their voices heard? Finally, we wanted to find out where this group stands today, that is almost two years after the 2023 parliamentary elections when their mobilization was said to have contributed to the election outcome. Thus, we asked: are young people satisfied with politics? Or have they become disillusioned? And if they are disappointed, what effect does it have on them? Are they demobilized or are they looking for new political alternatives?
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far right, Poland, populism, Youth
