Reuters World News Gen Z gender divide and the reshaping of democracy
May 31, 2025
Mark Bendeich, Global Managing Editor for Politics, Economics, and World News at Reuters, dives into the striking gender divide within Gen Z. He discusses how young men are increasingly gravitating towards right-wing politics, while young women lean left, influenced by economic insecurities. The conversation extends to South Korea, Germany, and the U.S., highlighting the role of societal perceptions. Bendeich also addresses the economic challenges facing young men and the widening generational gap in democratic perspectives, shedding light on the future of political landscapes.
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Global Gen Z Gender Political Split
- Young men worldwide increasingly lean right while young women lean left politically.
- This gender divide is evident in South Korea where 30% of young men back the right-wing Reform Party but only 3% of young women do.
Economic Stress Drives Men's Anger
- Economic insecurity fuels political anger among young South Korean men.
- They feel blocked from family formation and jobs and blame women for preferential treatment in employment.
Germany Reflects Global Gender Divide
- The gender polarization in politics among Gen Z is also clear in Germany.
- 27% of men aged 18-24 voted for right-wing AFD while 35% of women voted for far-left Die Linke party.