UK lowers voting age to 16 in major democratic reform

Saturday 19 July 2025 - 14:45

The British government has announced a major reform to the country’s electoral system by proposing to lower the voting age to 16 across the United Kingdom. The move, which aligns voting rights with those already granted in Scotland and Wales, is aimed at expanding democratic participation among younger citizens.

The proposed reform, expected to be debated in Parliament in the coming weeks, will take effect in the next general elections. According to government officials, it reflects a commitment to fairness, noting that many 16- and 17-year-olds already contribute to society through employment and military service.

In addition to expanding the electorate, the reform also seeks to make voter ID rules more inclusive, allowing individuals to use bank cards and veterans' IDs to vote.

The reform delivers on a 2024 Labour Party manifesto promise and comes amid broader efforts to strengthen public trust in democratic institutions. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner stated, "For too long, trust in our democracy has eroded. We are removing barriers to participation and giving young people a real voice in shaping their future."

To improve voter registration, the government will introduce a more automated system, making it easier for citizens to be added to electoral rolls without repeatedly submitting the same information across various agencies.

The plan also includes tighter measures against foreign political interference. Political parties will now be required to verify the legitimacy of donations, ensuring companies donating to campaigns can prove active business operations in the UK or Ireland.

Sanctions for violations will be severe, with fines reaching £500,000 for breaches such as false declarations or misleading financial contributions. These steps aim to ensure electoral integrity and transparency.

Overall, the reform represents a significant shift in how British democracy functions, potentially bringing hundreds of thousands of young voters into the political process and setting new standards for electoral transparency.