Expanding Municipal Voting Rights in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia is a growing and increasingly diverse province that would realize many benefits from expanding municipal voting rights to Permanent Residents and lowering the municipal voting age to 16. Increasing civic participation, viewing policy issues from different perspectives, and fostering inclusion are just some of the potential positive outcomes of expanding the vote. Nova Scotia could be a leader in this regard, setting an example for other regions considering similar policies.

Expanding municipal voting rights will support greater inclusion and participation, which may contribute to higher rates of retention of youth and Permanent Residents in our communities. In a context of an aging population, and with regions across the country vying to increase their own populations, developing policies that increase engagement can only foster a community in which everyone feels they have a stake, and are working together for the overall betterment of all residents.

Increased Civic Engagement

Allowing youth to vote at 16 encourages early engagement in the democratic process. It promotes a sense of civic responsibility and encourages them to become informed and active citizens from a younger age.

Education and Awareness

Involvement in the electoral process at a younger age can lead to increased awareness and understanding of political issues, government functions, and the importance of voting. This could potentially foster a more politically informed and engaged population, and would provide the opportunity for schools to be more invested in the process by engaging in the process and supporting students to take advantage of their right to vote.

Representation

Lowering the voting age ensures that the interests and concerns of youth are better represented in the political decision-making process. It acknowledges that young people have valid perspectives and stakes in the future direction of their communities and countries.

Long-term Political Participation

By starting to vote earlier, youth are more likely to continue participating in future elections, establishing a habit of voting that persists throughout their lives. This could contribute to higher voter turnout rates overall and a more representative democracy.

Addressing Issues that Impact Youth

Allowing youth to vote gives them a direct voice in shaping policies that affect their lives, such as recreation, transit, and infrastructure (roads, sidewalks, trails, bike lanes, bus stops). It empowers them to advocate for policies that reflect their concerns and priorities.

Enhancing Diversity and Inclusion

Lowering the voting age promotes inclusivity and diversity in the electoral process by ensuring that the voices of younger generations, who may have different perspectives and experiences, are heard and considered in decision-making.

Social and Economic Justice

Extending voting rights to youth helps address inequalities in representation, particularly for marginalized communities where youth may face disproportionate barriers to political participation. It promotes a more equitable distribution of political power and resources.

Alignment with International Standards

Lowering the voting age to 16 aligns Nova Scotia’s electoral practices with a growing international norm and standard. Many regions around the world already allow 16-year-olds to vote in local, regional, or national elections.