The New Democrats hope that reviving the ground for lowering the legal voting age in Canada to 16 will generate more support in the House of Commons this time, given new and emerging threats to global democracy.
NDP leader Jagmit Singh said that while he was aware of the failures of previous bills, he believed that the bill of this private member, sponsored by NDP MP Taylor Bahrach, was unique.
“I think there is a feeling in the world that democracy is threatened and we are seeing a rise in some cases of fascism, a rise or erosion of democracy and some examples of that. In light of this, I think there is a stronger belief in how we support democracy, how to make sure that our democratic systems work well and play well and stay alive, “Singh said on Tuesday.
The NDP leader cited Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine as an example.
Bahrach originally introduced Bill C-210 in December 2021. This is the first bill since 2005, when Liberal MP Mark Holland proposed such a policy to reach the stage of debate.
“In a conversation with MPs from other parties over the last few weeks, I was really encouraged by the interest and support. Of course, we will see what happens at the second reading, but I think this is an idea that goes beyond the parties, “Bahrach said of the bill, which will be discussed on Wednesday in the House of Commons.
The Conservative Party allows those aged 14 and over to vote in its leadership race.
In addition to strengthening democracy in Canada, Bahrach said the move highlights a number of voting issues that are important for the future of young people.
“Whether we are talking about housing, affordability, the sustainability of our healthcare system or, most importantly, the climate crisis, which is getting worse every year, these are issues that young people are interested in and issues that really affect young people. deep ways and they deserve to have a voice in the conversation on these issues, “he said.
The NDP members were joined by Jan Eichhorn, an associate professor at the University of Edinburgh who studies political engagement, namely among young people.
Eichhorn said international research shows that 16- and 17-year-olds are more likely to vote than 18-24-year-olds.
“For them, the first vote is less likely to be an isolated experience. “They are more likely to still live at home, more likely to be in some form of education or vocational training in which they talk to others, in which they can experience discussions for a joint vote,” he said.
“And what’s really important is that when young people do that, they also influence the rest of society.”
If passed, Bill C-210 will amend the text of the Canadian Elections Act to designate a qualified voter as any Canadian citizen aged 16 or over on election day.
Then a “future voter” will be considered any person over the age of 14 and under 16.
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