Importance of the Youth Vote
It’s official: Mark Carney has asked and received permission from Governor General Mary Simon to dissolve parliament and trigger a federal election on April 28th. Given Donald Trump's and the United States' threats of annexation and continued trade war, this election is more important than ever. Our choice is simple: Who do Canadians think can lead our country through these challenging times and continue to unite Canadians?
According to recent estimates from Elections Canada, 3.8 million Canadians aged 18 to 24 are eligible to vote this year, representing 11% of eligible voters in Canada. In the 2021 federal election, only 46.7% of 18—to 24-year-olds voted, compared to 74.4% of those aged 65 to 74. A record number of first-time voters will increase their likely impact. Youth votes can decide the outcome in dozens of ridings in a close election.
Youth have the most extended stake in current decision-making. Voting gives youth a say in shaping the policies that will affect their education, jobs, families, and environment in the future. Strong youth participation signals to politicians that their voices matter, encouraging more inclusive policymaking and youth involvement.
Youth have already shared the most pressing issues shaping our country's future, with climate change being the most important. They demand bold policies like net-zero emissions, green infrastructure, and climate justice. With the rise in wildfires and other extreme weather events, significant investments must be made to ensure our infrastructure can handle these incidents.
Education and student debt are also at the top of the list of pressing issues. The cost of tuition is rising, and grants and loans are not keeping pace with the increase. The average student debt in Canada is $28,000, and there are no signs of slowing. The federal government needs to make the current grant and loan increases that have been temporary permanent and create a debt-relief program that meets the needs of all students.
Finally, housing and the cost of living are all-encompassing issues that politicians have ignored. They have attempted to create short-term solutions when long-term, sustainable solutions are needed for our country's future. Many young Canadians are priced out of the housing market, with homeownership feeling out of reach for young people in all corners of the country. Rent has continued to rise, with the average price of a one-bedroom apartment costing $1920. Youth want real solutions: rent control, investments in non-market housing, and affordable builds. Youth are also more likely to work in precarious, low-wage, or gig jobs. Inflation has outpaced wages, and many can’t afford basic needs. Youth need stronger worker protections, a living wage, and affordability policies.
Youth represent Canada's most significant percentage of voters and will be the deciding factor in this year’s election. They need access to the tools to understand how their vote matters and its impact on the future. We must make voting accessible, with information readily available to all young people on how to cast their vote. You can learn more at https://www.elections.ca/home.aspx.