2024 London Mayoral Election: The importance of young people voting

The upcoming 2024 London mayoral election is scheduled for May 2, 2024, to determine the next mayor of London. This election coincides with the London Assembly elections, as well as certain local council by-elections within London and regular local elections across England and Wales. Youth participation in polls is vital for shaping the future. As the next generation of leaders, young people’s voices must be heard in the democratic process. Throughout history, young people have played pivotal roles in shaping society. From the civil rights movement to climate change activism, their voices have been instrumental in driving progress. Today, it’s more important than ever for young people to participate in polls and influence the direction of their future.

Recapping some of the 2024 candidates

Incumbent mayor Sadiq Khan, who has held the position since 2016, is running for re-election as the Labour candidate. The Conservative Party has put forward former London Assembly Conservative leader Susan Hall as their candidate. The Green Party has nominated Zoë Garbett, a councilor from Hackney borough. Rob Blackie is the candidate nominated by the Liberal Democrats, while Reform UK has nominated Howard Cox. Additionally, there are eight other candidates vying for the position.

It’s so important for young people to vote and take part in the upcoming election, because the leaders and decisions of today will have a huge effect on their tomorrow. 

Let’s discuss the importance of young people voting: 

• Representation: Young people voting ensures that the diverse perspectives and interests of youth are represented in the political process. By participating in elections, they have a voice in shaping policies and decisions that directly impact their lives, such as education, employment, and social issues.
• Policy Impact: The collective voting power of young people can significantly influence the outcome of elections and shape the political landscape. Politicians are more likely to prioritize issues that matter to young voters when they see their electoral significance, leading to policies that address youth concerns effectively.
• Civic Engagement: Voting is a fundamental aspect of civic engagement and democratic participation. Encouraging young people to vote instills a sense of responsibility and empowerment, fostering a lifelong commitment to civic duty and activism. It helps cultivate an informed and engaged citizenry, vital for the health of democratic societies.

• Long-term Impact: Engaging young people in the electoral process has long-term implications for the future of democracy. By voting early in their adult lives, young people establish a habit of political participation that can endure throughout their lifetime. This ensures sustained involvement in shaping the direction of society and holding elected officials accountable.
• Representation of Future Issues: As the leaders and decision-makers of tomorrow, young voters play a crucial role in shaping the agenda for future generations. Issues such as climate change, technological advancements, and social justice are of particular significance to young people, and their participation in elections ensures these concerns are addressed by policymakers.
• Active Citizenship: A healthy democracy requires active participation from all citizens, regardless of age. Voting is a fundamental way to exercise civic rights and contribute to the democratic process. How can one run a country without winning those it affects most of all the participation of the youth is so impactful not just for the candidates running but for their futures themselves .
• Unique Perspectives: Young people have distinct experiences and viewpoints that are valuable in shaping policy. Their voices can bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the political process. so who better to come up with new and innovative ways to better the country by listening to the young people themselves and better to implement and map out these ideas into strategies than the upcoming candidates that will possess the power to do so.
• Advocacy for Change: Voting allows young people to advocate for issues important to them, such as mental health, student debt, and social justice. Especially since the other older generations have faced the same problems however not to the severity and detrimental impact as the younger generation of today.

In conclusion, the 2024 London mayoral election presents a pivotal opportunity for young people to assert their voices and influence the future of their city. As candidates like Sadiq Khan and Susan Hall, among others, vie for the role of mayor, it is crucial for youth to engage in the democratic process. Their participation not only ensures that their diverse perspectives are represented but also empowers them to address urgent issues such as climate change, education, and social justice. Voting is not merely a right; it is a powerful tool for advocacy and change. By casting their ballots, young voters can shape policies that resonate with their needs and aspirations, fostering a sense of civic responsibility that can last a lifetime. Ultimately, as future leaders and innovators, young people must embrace this opportunity to participate actively in shaping their society. Their voices are vital in guiding today’s leaders towards creating a better tomorrow.

https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/49965/pdf