The recent electoral success of the Liberal Democratic Party under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has garnered attention towards the political engagement of young people in Japan, especially as they increasingly rely on social media for political information. Haruto Sasaki, a director of the Japan Youth Council, offers insights into this evolving landscape of political consciousness among the younger generations. He notes that while politicians make actual policy decisions, citizens, including youth, can actively participate in the policy-making process, which he has done since high school by engaging with various policy areas such as social security and labor.

Sasaki's recent blog post titled 'Why Young Liberals Voted for the LDP?' has sparked significant discussion on social media, highlighting how young people's definitions of conservative and liberal differ from traditional views. He points out that today's youth consider 'reform-oriented' as a key indicator of liberalism, emphasizing a shift from conventional definitions. This perspective is evidenced by their openness towards issues like same-sex marriage and other progressive measures, reflecting a desire for reform rather than strict ideological alignment.

The establishment of the Democracy Museum in Tokyo last year further showcases young people's efforts to deepen their political engagement. This venue allows youth to learn about lobbying, protests, and political processes while interacting with politicians. Sasaki's initiatives and engagements illustrate a promising trend of increased political awareness and participation among young Japanese citizens, potentially shaping the future political landscape in the country.