Around 6 in 10 young people registered to vote
Around 60% of Scotland’s youngest eligible voters are registered, according to official data, as efforts continue to boost participation among teenagers.
Around 60% of 16 and 17-year-olds in Scotland were registered to vote as of December, according to new figures published by National Records of Scotland.
The data provides a snapshot of youth engagement in the democratic process, with Scotland remaining one of the few parts of the UK where people can vote from the age of 16 in certain elections.
The Electoral Commission has sought to increase awareness among younger voters through its “Welcome to Your Vote Week” campaign, which is aimed at helping students understand how to register and take part in elections.
The campaign, delivered in schools and youth settings across the UK, encourages democratic participation at an early age. It comes as organisations continue to highlight the importance of engaging young people ahead of major elections.
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A Youth Voice Network for Scotland
Find out more about Youth Voice Network.
On behalf of the Electoral Commission, Children in Scotland is running the Youth Voice Network for Scotland. This group is working to increase the knowledge and understanding of democracy and politics amongst young people, while supporting consistency in political education.
