Faced with barriers to have their voices heard in traditional media and communication outlets, such as television and media, young people are increasingly ignoring them altogether. More than ever, young people around the world are using ICT tools and platforms to organize for change, make their political opinions publicly known, and mobilize support. They have adopted more direct and interactive communication tools, such as Facebook, Twitter, text messages, promotional videos, podcasts, and blogs, decisions that have eliminated the use of intermediaries in communication and allowed youth themselves to be “the news makers.”

These youth preferences and trends underscore why EMBs should capitalize on the power of ICTs to provide incentives for young people to participate in electoral processes, as well as to reach out to them in relatable ways.