In a move meant in part to boost sagging voter turnout, the UK government has lowered the voting age from 18 to 16 for the next round of national elections. The proposal would enfranchise around 1.6 million young people ahead of the next general election, expected in 2029. Who would benefit from their votes? A new poll of 16- and 17-year-olds shows Labour leading with 33%, Reform UK at 18%, and just 10% backing the Conservatives.
Graphic Truth
Graphic Truth: UK to lower voting age to 16
The number of people newly eligible to vote in the next election because of the decision to lower the voting age to 16.
Riley Callanan
By Riley CallananJuly 17, 2025
Riley Callanan
Riley is a former writer and reporter for GZERO. When she isn’t writing about global politics, you can find her conducting research on American politics or persisting in her lifelong quest to learn French. Riley spends her time outside of work grilling, dancing, and wearing many hats (both literally and figuratively).
