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This article addresses the relationship between age, ethnic identity and civic-political participation amongst ethnic minority young people living in Greater London, U.K. British Bangladeshi and Congolese young people aged 16-17 and 20-26 years old participated in focus groups, which were analysed using thematic analysis. This analysis brought to our attention a number of themes common to both ethnic groups, for example the phenomenon of a double discrimination against young people and its internalisation, young people’s perception of the ineffectiveness of institutions and the importance of the female role in society. Themes particular to each ethnic group included the relationship with other European countries, islamophobia, individual action and the role of culture. The individual and social implications are discussed.