Is It Time Canada Lowered The Voting Age To 16 Years?

Having youths engaged in the political system can only benefit the Country’s democratic process

There are certainly arguments in favour of lowering the voting age to 16 in Canada. One argument is that young people at this age are already entrusted with many responsibilities and rights, such as being able to work, drive a vehicle, and in some cases, even join the military. Therefore, it could be argued that they are capable of making informed decisions about political issues and should be allowed to express their democratic rights by voting.

Another argument in favour of lowering the voting age is that it could increase youth participation in the political process. Many young people feel disconnected from politics and may not feel that their voices are being heard. Lowering the voting age could give them a greater sense of ownership over the political process and encourage them to engage more with politics.

Furthermore, research has shown that young people who start voting at a younger age are more likely to continue voting as they get older. This could lead to higher overall voter turnout and a more representative democracy.

There are also potential drawbacks to lowering the voting age, such as concerns about the maturity and judgment of young people at this age. However, these concerns can be addressed through education and voter outreach efforts to ensure that young people are informed and prepared to make informed decisions at the ballot box.

Overall, there are good reasons to consider lowering the voting age to 16 in Canada. While there may be some valid concerns, the potential benefits of increased youth participation and a more representative democracy make it worth considering.