As early voting begins for the Church of Sweden's election, efforts are underway to engage young voters through platforms like Snapchat and Tiktok. Despite a high awareness of the election, actual voter turnout remains low, with only 18% participation in the last election. The Church aims to bridge this gap by focusing on young adults and addressing key issues such as sustainability and social work.
Tiktok Targets Youth in Sweden's 'Forgotten Election'
Tiktok Targets Youth in Sweden's 'Forgotten Election'
On Monday, early voting opens for the Church of Sweden's election. The previous election saw participation rise to the second highest since the 1930s.
It's often referred to as the forgotten election. According to a survey by the Church of Sweden, only about half, 46 percent, of the church's members consider it "very important" or "quite important" to influence the church's work.
– Despite this, about 18 percent voted in the last election. So there is a discrepancy between engagement and those who actually go to vote, says Asp, who still believes that voter turnout is high compared to other organizations.
– About a million people go and vote to be involved and make an impact.
Present on Snapchat and Tiktok
According to Asp, there is increased interest in the Church of Sweden. Some of the influx comes from young people under 16, who cannot vote in this year's election.
At the same time, it is among young adults that the Church of Sweden finds it challenging to reach voters.
– We know that there is a great awareness among our members that there is an election. I think we were up to 96 percent in the last election, says Asp.
– We have a special focus on young adults in tone and the channels we choose when we want to reach out. We are also on Snapchat and Tiktok.
Difference Between Men and Women
Men report more often than women that they vote due to an interest in politics. Women consider the most important reason to vote is "the church's important work" and the opportunity to protect the democratic right.
So what can members influence in the election?
– If you take the local level, which is the own congregation, it's about what kind of activities there should be, says Nils Warmland, church election leader.
It can involve open preschools, discussion groups, how the cemetery should look, and the design of cultural issues.
– There is also a focus on sustainability issues, international work, and diakonia, which is the church term for social work and help for those who are sick and lonely, says Warmland.