The British government has announced plans to lower the voting age to 16, a move that would place the UK among the few nations globally to adopt such a measure.
The change, a key campaign promise of the ruling Labour Party, is part of broader electoral reforms aimed at revitalizing democratic participation amid concerns over low voter turnout.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the proposal, stating: “If you’re old enough to work and pay taxes, you should have a say in how those taxes are spent.”
The measure will require new legislation, but Labour’s parliamentary majority is expected to ease its passage.
Currently, only a handful of countries — including Austria, Brazil, and Argentina — permit voting in national elections from age 16.
Additional reforms include the introduction of automated voter registration and allowing UK-issued bank cards to serve as voter ID. These changes come after a controversial voter ID law passed by the previous Conservative government was found to have disenfranchised up to 750,000 voters.
Harry Quilter-Pinner of the Institute for Public Policy Research hailed the reforms as “the biggest since 1969,” projecting that they could add 9.5 million new voters to the electoral roll.
Bonmati Fit for Spain’s Euro 2025 Quarter-Final Clash with Switzerland
Bern – Aitana Bonmati, two-time Ballon d’Or winner, is set to start for Spain in their UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 quarter-final against Switzerland after recovering from viral meningitis.
The midfielder made her full return in Spain’s 3–1 group stage win over Italy, which confirmed La Roja’s place atop Group B. Speaking ahead of Friday’s clash, Bonmati reflected on her illness: “It was a frustrating and unexpected experience. I want to enjoy the tournament now and give my best.”
Spain, the reigning World Cup champions, are seeking their first Women’s Euro title and enter the match as strong favourites after scoring 14 goals in the group stage.
Switzerland, meanwhile, will count on home support at the Wankdorf Stadium. Defender Noelle Maritz described the atmosphere as “indescribable” and said fan energy would be crucial.
Swiss coach Pia Sundhage acknowledged the challenge ahead but remained hopeful. “We’re dealing with pressure much better now,” she said, pointing to recent improvements in training.
