UK Set to Lower Voting Age to 16, Largest Expansion in 50 Years

The UK government plans to lower the voting age to 16, marking its biggest electoral reform in over five decades. The Labour-led government said the move fulfils its 2024 manifesto and aims to boost youth participation amid falling voter turnout (59.7%).

A bill will soon be introduced in Parliament, targeting implementation before the 2029 general election. The reforms also propose stricter foreign donation rules and simplified voter registration.

Supporters say 16-year-olds already work, pay taxes, and serve in the military. Critics argue it’s a political tactic to gain younger votes.