Teens and voting: the worst clash ever?
On 17th of July 2025, the UK government announced that under a ‘modernisation of UK democracy’, 16-year-olds would be able to vote in the next general election, due to take place in 2029.
Creating controversy in the media, many questioned if this was Labour’s desperate attempt to reel in a new generation of liberal voters, or a genuine consideration of the unrepresented youth of the UK. For some, the news came as a surprise, with half of 16-and 17-year-olds expressing their opinion that the voting age should not be decreased, according to an ITV news poll.
Whilst argued that the new legislation brings political freedom and potentially more encouragement to develop and enrich political opinions, it could also be deemed harmful to those who are easily influenced by social media and peers, rather than having developed a view for themselves. If young people are simply voting based on the most charismatic or comedic of politicians, the outcome of the next general election may be catastrophic for those who must suffer the real-life consequences, rather than the young voters who are still under the shelter of their parents and carers. With little to no real-life experience, such as buying homes, cars, and supporting families, how are the youth of the UK supposed to allow this inexperience to shape their political opinions and futures?
In the UK currently, 16-year-olds may be able to have a job paid at minimum wage or above, leave home with or without parental consent, and join the armed forces, but is decreasing the voting age a step too far?
Without a political education in school, most 16-year-olds are apathetic about politics, even saying that they would not bother to vote even if they could.
So, will we be seeing you at the polling station?
Violet Crowton
Facts/statistics
Image:
41,230 Polling Station Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock
