Political Motivation and Cambodian youth: A Historical and systematic review of Community Support factors in Emerging Democracies

This theoretical review examines the critical role of community support in shaping youth political motivation in emerging democracies, with a specific focus on Cambodia. As Cambodia continues its transition from a history of political repression to a more democratic system, understanding the factors that drive youth engagement in the political process is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of democratic institutions. This review synthesizes existing literature on how community support factors, including social capital, social networks, and perceived social support, contribute to political efficacy and political participation among Cambodian youth. Drawing from a variety of studies in Southeast Asia and beyond, the review highlights the role of family support, peer influence, and local community networks in encouraging political participation, especially in the context of Cambodia’s unique socio-political environment. The findings underscore that strong community ties significantly enhance youth motivation to vote, participate in political discussions, and engage in civic activism. Furthermore, the review identifies significant gaps in the literature, particularly the need for longitudinal studies, rural-urban comparisons, and further exploration of the role of digital media in facilitating political engagement. It concludes by offering recommendations for future research, such as the importance of mixed methods approaches and a more detailed understanding of contextual factors influencing youth political behaviour. Finally, the review emphasizes the need for targeted policy strategies, including civic education and community-building initiatives, to increase youth political participation in Cambodia and other emerging democracies. This paper contributes to the broader understanding of how community-driven engagement can empower youth and enhance the democratic development of countries undergoing political transitions.