Votes at 16

A proposed new law will put Wales firmly on the road towards votes at 16 becoming a reality for 2021.

Lowering the voting age to 16

The Assembly Commission is proposing a new law, to renew our democracy in Wales. It will empower 16 and 17 year olds to vote at Welsh general elections when Assembly Members are elected. Giving them a voice on decisions that will define their future.

The Senedd and Elections (Wales) Bill will lower the voting age to 16.

The proposal was recommended by the independent Expert Panel on Assembly Electoral Reform, following a public consultation. The consultation showed that 59% of people responding agreed the voting should be lowered to 16.

Elin Jones AM, Llywydd of the National Assembly for Wales says:

“Votes at 16 will give young people a stronger voice in the future of our nation."

"Empowering young people to vote at 16 is a powerful statement from the Assembly that we value their views.

“Votes at 16 will have to be accompanied by appropriate political and citizenship education and public awareness-raising to ensure young people are encouraged and supported to exercise their right to vote.”

“We will work with the Welsh Government and other partners, including our own Youth Parliament to determine how best to meet this need.”