'A Seminal Moment for Scottish Democracy'
Today’s formal agreement of the Scottish independence referendum by the UK and Scottish Governments has been hailed as a “seminal moment on a historic day for Scottish democracy” by the Scottish Youth Parliament.
One of the key components of the agreement is that the franchise will be extended to all 16 and 17 year-olds.
Grant Costello MSYP, Chair of the Scottish Youth Parliament, said: "Lowering the voting age to 16 is a seminal moment on a historic day for Scottish democracy. For the first time 16 and 17-year-olds will be able to have their say at a national level on the way forward for Scotland. We believe it's entirely right the young people who are the future of Scotland should have their say on Scotland's constitutional future.
"Allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to vote shows society believes these young people, who can marry, work, and join the army, are capable of being full active citizens. At a time where far too often young people are ignored or vilified by society, today is a very positive step demonstrating 16 and 17-year-olds are valuable citizens whose hopes and ideas deserve to be heard.
“It’s crucial all 16-year-olds are given the chance to vote on this issue. The Scottish Youth Parliament, together with NUS Scotland, have urged the UK and Scottish Governments to work together to ensure the correct registration processes are in place to allow votes at 16. We pledge to continue to work with all parties to ensure every 16 year-old is able to cast their vote on Scotland’s future.
"The Scottish Youth Parliament's core belief is the views of young people deserve to be engaged with. That's why we’ve campaigned for votes at 16 for over a decade. We're delighted our call has been listened to, but this is a process not an event, and we hope today's decision paves the way for votes at 16 in all future elections."
