European Parliamentary Elections and Lowered Voting Age

SOURCE www.npr.org
Voting is underway in the European parliamentary elections with Germany and Belgium lowering the voting age from 18 to 16.

Key Points

  • Germany and Belgium have lowered the voting age from 18 to 16
  • New block of voters heading to the polls in these countries

Pros

  • Engage younger citizens in the democratic process
  • Allow younger voices to be heard in political decisions

Cons

  • Concerns about maturity and political awareness of 16-year-old voters