SHOULD YOUNG PEOPLE BE ALLOWED TO VOTE AT THE AGE OF 16?

In several democratic countries—including Austria, Argentina, Scotland, and Wales—16-year-olds already have the right to vote. This progressive shift raises an important question: should all democracies follow suit? I argue that they should. Lowering the voting age to 16 not only empowers young people but also strengthens democratic participation across generations.

Research shows that young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, are less likely to vote. However, this can be reversed through education. When Austria lowered its voting age, it also invested in civic education in schools. In Scotland, many young people reported feeling more inclined to vote after discussing political issues in class. These examples show how education fosters engagement (Bystricky).

A study published in the Journal of Youth Studies found that 16- and 17-year-olds were significantly more likely to vote in future elections if they were given the opportunity earlier. Developing voting habits at a younger age leads to long-term civic participation. This is crucial, especially as voter turnout continues to decline globally, a trend that threatens the health of democratic systems (Larimer).

Most 16-year-olds are still in school, making it an ideal environment for structured civic education. In contrast, many 18-year-olds are transitioning out of school, facing pressures such as employment or financial independence. These factors reduce their exposure to civic education and lower their motivation to vote. Without proper education, some may vote without understanding key political issues, or choose not to vote at all (Lally).

Many adults assume they are immune to political propaganda, yet studies suggest otherwise. The Dunning–Kruger effect can affect voters of all ages. The ability to critically evaluate political information is closely tied to education. Those who lack civic education, especially from underprivileged backgrounds, are more vulnerable to misinformation (Duignan). By integrating civic education into schools and lowering the voting age to 16, democracies can empower young citizens to make informed decisions and foster lifelong civic engagement.

Lowering the voting age also has a ripple effect across generations. A study conducted in Denmark revealed that parents living with voting-age children were more likely to vote themselves, compared to parents whose children could not vote. This suggests that youth engagement can positively influence family-level democratic participation (Setnyk).

Some critics argue that 16-year-olds are not cognitively mature enough to vote. While the brain continues developing until around age 25, this logic would require raising the voting age far beyond 18. The difference in brain development between 16 and 18 is not so vast as to justify exclusion. Scientific evidence supports the idea that 16-year-olds are capable of making informed decisions, especially when supported by education (Steinberg).

In conclusion, lowering the voting age to 16 in all democracies is not only feasible, it’s necessary. It empowers young people, fosters lifelong civic engagement, and strengthens democratic institutions.

Works Cited

Bystricky, Ben. “When 16-Year-Olds Vote, We All Benefit.” YES! Magazine, 23 May 2018, www.yesmagazine.org/democracy/2018/05/23/when-16-year-olds-vote-we-all-benefit.

Duignan, Brian. “Dunning–Kruger Effect.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 31 July 2025, www.britannica.com/science/Dunning-Kruger-effect.

Lally, Ellie L. “Election Turnout: Why Do Some People Not Vote?” UK Parliament POST, 10 Apr. 2024, post.parliament.uk/election-turnout-why-do-some-people-not-vote.

Larimer, Brett M. “Why Do People Vote? A Psychological Analysis of the Causes of Voter Turnout.” PubMed Central, Apr. 2013, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3621648.

Setnyk, Jason. “Council Targets Low Voter Turnout with Internet Voting Option in 2026.” Cornwall Seaway News, 25 Aug. 2025, www.cornwallseawaynews.com/local/council-targets-low-voter-turnout-with-internet-voting-option-in-2026.

Steinberg, Laurence. “Let Science Decide the Voting Age.” New Scientist, 8 Oct. 2014, www.newscientist.com/article/mg22429900-200-let-science-decide-the-voting-age.

Žana Zupanc is a second-year student at Celje First High School in Slovenia, where she attends a classical program which focuses on Latin and humanities. Her writing explores the intersection of social impact, with a particular interest in global issues and cultural diplomacy. She is the recipient of the Scholar’s Laureate Award from the Immerse Education Essay Competition and serves as an ambassador for international academic initiatives that empower youth voices. She continues to develop her literary voice through essays that reflect her passion for culture and creativity.