Last week’s historic and momentous decision by the UK Government to grant the right to vote to 16 and 17-year-olds is a huge victory for democracy and for young people across the country.
It’s something we’ve campaigned on for years, and I was proud to be down in London last week, joining other young activists in meeting with ministers and MPs to discuss this vital change.
As the Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament for Clackmannanshire, I have continually spoken time and time again about the real importance of giving young people a say in the decisions that shape their lives, and this wonderful announcement marks a gigantic step forward in doing exactly that.
This isn’t a dangerous radical idea as many in the media portray it to be.
There are examples of success all across the world as well as here in Scotland, where 16-17-year-olds can already vote in local elections.
It is absolutely evident that introducing votes at 16 is a common sense policy.
At 16, you can pay Income Tax and National Insurance.
It should not be controversial to state that if you’re paying into the system, you deserve a say.
There should be no taxation without representation.
At 16 you can join the armed forces, get married (in Scotland, not England) and even have a child.
If you can be trusted with these gigantic responsibilities, you can be trusted to have your voice heard in politics.
Critics claim young people are not informed enough to be given the vote.
I’d challenge them to visit a secondary school modern studies class or a youth voice organisation.
You’ll find passionate and thoughtful young people who are deeply involved in issues that matter to them, like mental health, climate change and the cost of living.
The real issue is not young people lacking knowledge of politics, but rather that politics too often ignores younger generations, in favour of chasing the votes of the older generations.
Introducing Votes at 16 will help fix this, it will make it more appealing for politicians to make youth-friendly decisions, for they will be accountable at the ballot box.
Expanding the franchise to 16-year-olds also helps build a better democracy for the long term.
Studies and research clearly show that when young people vote in their first election, they’re more likely to stay engaged for life.
This means the age of 16 is a great starting point as many young people are still in school/college and have access to support and political education, which helps lead to the foundation for lifelong participation.
Political apathy is a big problem in Britain and this is a way to tackle it before it begins.
To those who still oppose this common sense policy by the UK Government, what are you afraid of?
A more engaged electorate with fresh ideas?
A generation that has an active say in its future?
These are the exact things our democracy needs.
Votes at 16 is a win for fairness, for representation, and for the future of this great country.
It’s a turning point, for every young person who has been overlooked and left without a say.
It is now on young people to use their votes wisely, and help shape the future they will inherit.
Share