The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) responds to the news that the UK government will lower the voting age to 16 years.

Joanna Rea, Director of Advocacy at The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) said:  

UNICEF UK welcomes today’s announcement that 16- and 17-year-olds will be given the right to vote in all UK elections. 

Young people have been heard. Lowering the voting age is an important step forward for children’s rights and youth participation. Young people have a right to be listened to on the issues that shape their lives – from healthcare, education and climate change to mental health and equality. Lowering the voting age recognises their voices, their experiences, and their right to shape their own futures. 

-ENDS- 

Notes to editors:

For more information, please contact the UNICEF UK media team on 0207 375 6030 [email protected]  

About UNICEF 

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. 

The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) raises funds for UNICEF’s emergency and development work for children. We also promote and protect children’s rights in the UK and internationally. We are a UK charity, entirely funded by supporters. 
 
United Kingdom Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK), Registered Charity No. 1072612 (England & Wales), SC043677 (Scotland). 
 
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