Do you agree with lowering the voting age for general elections to 16?
I don’t think it’s necessary, but I am not against it either. It would definitely be interesting to see what difference it can make in election results. Johann Agius, Master’s in Creativity and Innovation.
Personally I disagree, and not because I do not believe in teenagers but because of the anthropology of politics in Malta. I do not even believe that adults are able to take an informed, unbiased decision when voting. Michelle Grech, Bachelor of Laws, 4th year.
Yes, I agree with lowering the voting age in the name of democratic process and real voting equality. Mathias Mallia, BA Hons Philosophy, 2nd year.
What do you think would be the repercussions of such an action?
It might induce more partisan rivalry in the younger generation, but at the same time it can positively encourage young people to be more involved in politics. Johann Agius
The political parties would have a new ‘workable’ target audience to exploit, that is easier to induce with promises where assets are not measured in euros but in opportunity. Still, it speeds up the process of developing skills to make educated and logical judgements. Moreover, the younger population is more energetic and eager to participate in democracy. Michelle Grech
Apart from safeguarding of the right to participation in democratic processes, lowering the voting age will result in less discrimination, considering a greater number of people will have the same say in political decisions. Mathias Mallia
Why do you think 16-year-olds have or do not have the capability of making political decision?
I don’t think they should be considered as incapable, but I am not confident that they would make as much of an informed decision as we think they might be able to make. Johann Agius
I think they are not yet ready to take such a decision due to the Maltese partisan mentality and lack of education. Michelle Grech
It is wrong to pass off the younger generation’s opinions simply because they are young. What’s the point of encouraging students to make plans for their future careers without giving them the right to vote on the future of their country? Mathias Mallia
Compiled by Insite – the student media organisation.