This thesis investigates the relation between political disaffection and the rise of non-institutionalized political participation among the Mexican youth in the case of the #YoSoy132 movement....Show moreThis thesis investigates the relation between political disaffection and the rise of non-institutionalized political participation among the Mexican youth in the case of the #YoSoy132 movement. Theory on political disaffection, social capital and political participation together with the modern political history of Mexico and the #YoSoy132 movement are extensively analysed in order to examine the following hypothesis: in the case of the #YoSoy132 movement, political disaffection resulted in an increasing desire among the youth to participate in politics in order to oppose the Mexican regime. Since these youngsters badly distrust political parties and institutions, they are seeking unconventional ways to engage in politics. By producing new forms of social capital, the movement was able to grow and exert influence and power on politics while staying on the side lines to not become part of the “bad” practices of the Mexican government.Show less