(Hidden) Spheres of youth political participation in the city of Praia, Cape Verde: from political to parapolitics

Abstract

This article seeks to study the spheres of youth political participation in Praia, capital city of Cape Verde. From a qualitative and quantitative analysis, we map the levels reserved to youth political participation and we disclose the emerging trajectory forged by youths in order to express their relationship with political institutions, especially the Government and Political Parties. Mercantilist and parapolitical spheres conveyed by some rap groups and street gangs represent new organizational and participative trends of Praia youth who, in a context marked by inequalities and difficulties in the access to social opportunities, find in the electoral market possibilities of social affirmation.