Sachsen-Anhalt Children's Advocate Calls for Voting Age Reduction to 16
Sachsen-Anhalt's Children's and Youth Advocate, Holger Paech, is calling for the voting age in state elections to be lowered to 16. He argues that young people already take on responsibilities and participate politically but are excluded from legislative decisions.
Holger Paech, the Children's and Youth Advocate for Saxony-Anhalt, has called for the voting age in state parliamentary elections to be lowered to 16. Paech stated that the new state parliament should address this issue with high priority.
According to Paech, young people already assume responsibilities and engage in political activities but are consistently excluded from participating in state parliamentary elections. He described the situation as a "justice gap," as young individuals are particularly affected by long-term issues such as education, climate protection, health, care, and pensions.
Paech's demand comes at a time when the results of the Saxony-Anhalt state elections are being processed and a new government is being formed. He noted that seven German states currently permit voting rights from the age of 16.
The "justice gap" is particularly evident in long-term policies that directly impact the future of young people. Paech believes it is inconsistent for young people to actively participate in societal discussions and "U18 elections" (votes for those under 18) but lack the right to vote for state decision-makers.
Holger Paech's call has sparked debate in Saxony-Anhalt and is expected to influence future political discussions regarding youth participation in decision-making. The inaugural session of the state's new parliament is scheduled for October 6.