Move to allow 16 year olds to vote

Friday, 18 March 2022 06:30

The lower house of parliament has voted in favour of lowering the voting age to 16.

There are many hurdles before the law could be changed, but campaigners say it's an important first step.

Now the text will be sent to a committee to be drafted into a bill.

Those in favour of the change say it's time to trust the youths and will help them to become more involved in politics.

Only canton Glarus allows 16-year-olds to vote on a cantonal level. The idea has already been rejected by other cantons in local votes.

Even if the bill proceeds through parliament – it will mean a constitutional change that means the people will have the last say.

For sure, any teenager now will be able to vote on the issue if it comes up, as they will be old enough when it does.

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