A Critical Analysis of the Proposed Increase in the Voting Age from 18 to 25 Years in Pakistan and Its Implications for Democracy

Abstract

This study examines the demographic significance of the youth population of Pakistan and its role in electoral politics. It explores the voting age and the applicability of laws to Pakistan's democratic framework by comparing them to other countries. This study focuses on analyzing and drawing attention to the possible constitutional, social, and political issues that result in the youngster being denied the right to vote. This research purpose is to show that inclusive democratic participation fosters civic engagement, political accountability, and long-term democratic stability. The most significant component of democratic governance is the right to vote and youth engagement politics. Nowadays news circulated that Pakistan's constitution is being amended by raising the voting age from 18 to 25 to encourage youngsters to participate in the democratic process. However, this news brings worries in the communities and societies about political maturity, educational attainment, and informed decision-making, sometimes leading to discussions about whether the voting age should be raised to 25. This article critically examines the possible effects of raising Pakistan's voting age from 18 to 25. In this study qualitative and analytical research methods were used to assess the effects of such a policy on democratic representation, youth political participation, electoral outcomes, governance, and constitutional principles. Such types of policies will reduce political inclusion by marginalizing a sizable portion of Pakistan's population. Moreover, concerns about voter maturity are legitimate; democratic ideals encourage greater participation rather than exclusion. This study concludes that increasing political consciousness and civic education is a better course of action than limiting voting rights, but in this way a large portion of the population will be deprived of the right to vote. It also concentrates on the fact that 18 years of age voting is best, as at this stage youngsters know their priorities, right and wrong. Besides, in most democratic societies of the world, the voting age is 18 years, so it should not be raised.