As Guernsey approaches its next general election, the island faces a unique challenge: exceptionally low registration figures among the youth. Election officials indicate that less than 30% of eligible voters aged under 35 have registered, raising concerns about youth participation in the democratic process, especially with just over 70 days to go until the islanders cast their votes.
The Clock is Ticking: June 18th Election Looms
On Wednesday, June 18, Guernsey residents will be voting to elect 38 deputies to the States of Guernsey, the island’s government. Citizens must also be aware that the registration deadline falls on April 30th, which does not give much time for eligible voters to register.
Apathy or Alienation? Youth Disengagement
Disengagement among the youth and low registration numbers have brought the need to discuss the matter further into focus. Even though the minimum voting age in Guernsey is 16, a lot of the island’s younger people seem to be apathetic towards exercising their right to vote.
The Voice of Youth: “Why Would I Not Want My Say?”
Although the trend has been shifting, there are some young individuals ready to use their voting rights. As a local 18-year-old resident, Rosie was excited, saying, “It’s really important. This is an island I’m planning on living on for a long time, so why would I not want to have my say.”
Relatability Matters: Seeking Representation
As mentioned previously, Rosie also spoke about voting for candidates that she finds relatable and who share her values. “I think there are some [I can relate to] more than others,” she added. She also recounted the experience of going through manifestos for the 2020 election, something she should not have been doing as a voter at that age, simply because she was interested in participants that focused on the environment.
A Sense of Disconnection: “Politics Is Just Something I Feel Happens in the Background”
Not all young people share Rosie’s excitement, though. Kash, who recently turned 18, confessed, “I haven’t registered to vote as I don’t have a particular interest in it. I’m just used to the fact that politics is something that happens in the background.” It could be said that this reflects the lack of interest or disconnect about politics among some youth.
Representation Concerns: Feeling Unheard
Some young people have voiced their concerns regarding current deputies as remnants of an outdated political culture. Such lack of representation could be a reason for their disengagement from electoral politics.
The Emerging Challenge: Mobilizing Young Voters
The minimal youth registrants pose a unique problem for Guernsey’s electoral paradigm. Incorporating the youth and getting them engaged with the system is necessary to guarantee the existence of a responsive and participatory government.
A Noticeable Challenge: Engaging with Young Islanders
As the deadline for registration approaches, there are initiatives to mobilize user clans and get them excited about registering. Schools, community organizations, and local leadership are helping disseminate information on one’s civic duty and the value of exercising the right to vote.
Guernsey’s Future: Activism and the Responsibility of Youth
The election will determine the direction that Guernsey takes as a whole; hence, it’s important for younger voters to be involved if the elections are to impact them truly. The island faces the reality of finding ways to engage young people in politics and give them a stake in the future as well as a sense of responsibility.
