Comment: teenage vote must remain after indyref

THE referendum boasted the highest turnout in a vote since universal suffrage was granted. Glasgow, a blip in democracy’s triumph, still recorded 75%, 10% higher than in the 2010 general election.

Picture: Ian Rutherford

The Scottish people overcame the recent democratic deficit and voted on an issue that no matter the outcome would determine our nation’s future. The turnout can be explained by the fact that everyone recognised the importance of the referendum and believed their vote really did count. The nation’s high level of political engagement may be sustained up to, and beyond, 2015 if the issues continue to capture public interest. It is up to the citizen to be aware of the political scene and maintain their newfound involvement. Although it’s difficult to predict the lasting legacy of the referendum, the teenage vote must remain.

Teenagers like myself should be proud of our generation’s contribution to the debate. Regrettably, many us of will not be allowed to vote in next year’s general election. I regard the planned confiscation of this embryonic right as especially sour. However, this should not deter young Scots’ interest in politics. If we, as a generation, stop including ourselves in debates and discussions, then politicians will revert to ignoring us. Maintaining our interest will lead to recognition and possibly to a permanent reduction in the voting age. Scotland has proved that teenagers should be able to vote, as our maturity and confidence during the referendum debate has been equal to that of many adults. I believe that this contribution has forced the Labour Party to acknowledge our worth. Other

mainstream politicians should see the benefit of involving youngsters in the democratic process, just as the SNP should follow up on Alex Salmond’s claim that there is an ‘unanswerable case for giving 16 and 17- year-olds the vote in all future elections’.

I would encourage young Scots up and down the country to involve themselves directly in politics; show teachers, parents and politicians that we are responsible and enthusiastic, defeat the stereotype of the inward-looking teenager and show everyone that Russell Brand certainly does not represent most of our generation. This engagement does not require you to join a political party; just read up on current affairs, debate issues at school, discuss ideas with friends and use our most powerful tool - social media.

• Duncan McEwan is a school student who lives in Edinburgh