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Here’s A List Of Everything You Need To Know If You’re Voting In Malta For The First Time This May

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Vote16 wants you to know that if you’re 16 years old, you can vote in both the MEP and Local Council elections.

That means that on the 25th of May a whole bunch of 16 and 17-year-olds will be able to vote this May during the MEP elections. If you’re going to be voting for the first time, here are some important things you need to keep in mind when casting your vote;

1. Take your voting documents with you

You’ll be voting for both the Local Council and MEPs election, so you’re going to need two voting documents. These will be sent to your home by the 5th of May. If you don’t receive them by then, head on down to your local Police Station to pick up your voting documents between Saturday 11th May and Sunday 19th May.

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2. It’s all about the numbers

To vote, you won’t be adding any ticks or crosses next to your chosen candidates name, but you’ll be numbering them. Starting from number 1, being your preferred candidate and following that accordingly. Make sure you write your numbers as clear as possible… otherwise the vote will be invalid. If you make a mistake ask to have your ballot sheet replaced.

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3. You can take your time in the booth

It’s not a race. Buuuuut its better if you get to the voting venue as early as possible.Voting opens at 7am till 10pm. And make sure you go to the right venue – you can’t just vote anywhere. The correct venue is on the voting document.

4. You’re going to be one of 8,500 youths making local history

Don’t turn down this amazing opportunity. And convince your friends to head out and vote too – this your future we’re talking about.

5. As long as you’re 16 by the 24th of May, you can vote

So it doesn’t matter if you’ve only just turned 16 – you’re still eligible to vote!

BONUS: No selfies in the voting booth

Not that we think you’d actually do that, but you know…better safe than sorry. Any use of a camera or mobile phone while you’re inside the voting booth will automatically make your vote null. Instagram can wait for a few minutes.

But what do they think of this newly earned right?

Well for the most part, they’re relieved to finally be given a voice. They’re excited to be able to vote for the people who they feel represent the values they believe in and will discuss the topics that they feel are important.

These topics range from the environment to abortion to freedom of speech. These are the things that will be affecting their lives for the foreseeable future, so they should be able to voice their opinions.

When it came to the, erm, older generations, the opinions were mixed on whether 16 year-olds should be allowed vote

A couple of people thought that that’s too young to be focused on these matters, and they’re not mature enough to make these decisions. But it seems the general consensus is that as long as they’re well informed, then why not?

So, if you’re 16 or 17, here’s your friendly reminder to prove to the older generations that you do know what you want. Make sure you read up on the MEP candidates and get ready to cast your vote on the 25th of May.

Tag a friend who will finally be able to vote this May

READ NEXT: Medical Cannabis, Gender Quotas, And Prosperity For Africa: Here’s What Malta’s MEP Candidates Spoke About At The University Debate

 

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On the 5th of March 2018, Malta became the second European Union Member state, after Austria, to lower the voting age to 16 years in all elections. The Parliament decision was unanimous, and the law came into force. In 2018, we made history.
Participating in the political life of a country has always been important for young people.
Their engagement promises a sustainable future for democracy. Since today’s decisions will most affect future generations, youth participation has become even more crucial.

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