16-Year-Olds have Earned Their Voice

It's time we extend voting rights to 16-year-olds. While it may initially seem radical, when examined closely, it becomes clear that young Canadians at this age are more than capable of responsibly participating in our democratic process.

At 16, we trust our young people with significant responsibilities that impact their lives and the lives of others around them. They are legally permitted to drive, a responsibility that demands maturity, decision-making skills, and an awareness of consequences. We allow them to make significant decisions about their education and career paths, shaping the trajectory of their adult lives and future economic prospects. Furthermore, our society entrusts 16-year-olds with making independent medical decisions, recognizing their capacity for critical thinking and informed consent.

If we deem our youth responsible enough to handle these pivotal aspects of their personal and social roles, why should we exclude them from participating in elections? Young people today are acutely aware of global issues, particularly those concerning their future such as climate change, housing affordability, education policy, and employment opportunities. Their futures are directly shaped by decisions made by elected officials—often long after the politicians who made those decisions have left office.

The Green Party of Canada recognizes the importance of engaging young people in democracy. Our 2025 Election Platform explicitly includes lowering the voting age to 16. This policy aligns with our commitment to participatory democracy, ensuring that decisions reflect the diverse voices of all affected groups. Empowering younger voters not only strengthens democratic participation but also encourages lifelong civic engagement.

Lowering the voting age to 16 acknowledges the agency, responsibility, and maturity of our young citizens. It is a necessary step towards a fairer, more inclusive, and forward-thinking democracy. Let's trust our youth, respect their insights, and give them the voice they deserve.