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A landmark proposal to lower the voting age in Bahrain to 18 is scheduled for debate in the Shura Council on Sunday.
In a significant move towards increasing democratic participation, five members of the Shura Council, led by legislative and legal affairs committee chairwoman Dalal Al Zayed, have proposed lowering the voting age from 20, starting from the parliamentary and municipal elections in 2026.
It was in 2006 that the Shura Council had proposed lowering the voting age from 21 to 20, which was approved by Parliament and ratified by His Majesty King Hamad.
The Shura Council members, advocating for changes to the 2002 Political Rights Law and the 2002 Municipal Councils’ Elections Law, argue that expanding the voting base would enhance the representation of Bahrain’s youth.
“This age group is highly active and engaged in various social, political and economic issues, and allowing them to participate in elections would reflect their investment in Bahrain’s future,” said Ms Al Zayed.
“Giving younger citizens a stake in governance could foster a more inclusive political culture, encouraging young Bahrainis to take on civic responsibilities,” she added.
“Furthermore, many young citizens are already making valuable contributions to society and possess a maturity that makes them capable of understanding and influencing political decisions.
“Many countries have already lowered the voting age to 18, and some, such as Austria, even allow 16-year-olds to vote in certain elections.”
Ms Al Zayed said by lowering the voting age, Bahrain would stand alongside countries that recognise the importance of involving young people in governance and national development.
“Lowering the voting age could lead to a more vibrant and diverse political environment in Bahrain, with younger voices influencing policy on issues such as education, job creation and technological development,” she added.
“The initiative also seeks to create a foundation for Bahrain’s younger generation to become more involved in the country’s political institutions and decision-making processes.
“The move could help Parliament, the Shura Council and other governing bodies better understand and address the needs of the nation’s youth.”
Ms Al Zayed said by considering this proposal, Bahrain would be demonstrating a commitment to foster an inclusive democratic system that values the input of all its citizens, regardless of age.
Besides Parliament, the proposed changes will affect elections to the three elected municipal councils in the Northern, Southern and Muharraq Governorates. The Capital Trustees Board is an appointed municipal council which replaced the elected Manama Municipal Council in 2014.
The same group has presented amendments to the 2001 Municipal Law for municipal councillors that follows in pattern similar rules introduced in June for MPs.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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