Would giving 16-year-olds the vote improve democracy or just change the way campaigns are run?

On March 8, 2026, voters in the German state of Baden-Württemberg are electing a new Landtag, the state parliament that will shape policy for the next five years. For the first time, 16- and 17-year-olds are allowed to vote in a state election, after the voting age was lowered from 18 to 16 in 2022. This historic moment raises an important question: Would giving 16-year-olds the vote improve democracy or just change how campaigns are run?

I think giving 16-year-olds the vote improves democracy.

First, people under 18 often know more about topics that concern them, like education. Older voters may not think about what is important for young people or may forget their own experiences. By voting for policies that address their concerns, younger voters ensure these issues receive attention. A 2019 OECD study shows that students have a better understanding of school-related challenges and educational policy than adults, including class sizes, digital learning, and mental health support. This knowledge improves democracy by making teenagers issues more visible.

Second, voters under 18 develop voting habits earlier and continue voting as adults. People who vote in their first eligible election are more likely to vote in future elections. A 2024 Cambridge University study found that first voting experiences strongly influence later participation. Similarly, research from the University of Edinburgh on the 2014 Scottish independence referendum showed that 16-17-year-olds had higher turnout than first-time voters aged 18 to 24. This strengthens democracy by increasing turnout.

Third, political decisions often have long-term effects that affect younger generations more. For example, climate change will impact younger people far more than older voters, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Giving them a voice ensures policies that affect their future are considered.

Some may argue that allowing 16-17-year-olds to vote makes politicians focus more on appealing to youth through social media or pop culture rather than policy. However, lowering the voting age actually forces politicians to consider young people’s interests, as seen in Austria’s reform, where parties adapted to new young voters preferences. Research by Markus Wagner and David Johann shows that 16-17-year-olds have political knowledge and reasoning similar to older first-time voters, meaning their votes cannot be won only through campaigns.

In conclusion, lowering the voting age to 16 gives young people a real voice on issues that affect them and leads to more voters in the future.