Catch21 Productions | Why Bother Voting?

Why Bother Voting?

When talking about politics amongst my friends, people often ask me; "Why should I bother voting in general elections?" "Its not like my one vote is going to make a difference" and clearly their particular vote is not going to determine the overall outcome of the election, but, Every vote does count. Besides, voting is more than about just casting your vote. It is your democratic right, your civic duty.

In this country people have suffered for years to get to the situation that we find ourselves in today, where everyone over the age of eighteen, men and women, black and white, poor and rich can vote for who they want to be represented by in parliament. People often forget that it wasn’t long ago that women in this country were actually afforded the vote. Even when this was the case in 1918, it only applied to women over the age of 30 who were householders! It wasn’t until ten years later that women over the age of 21 were allowed to cast a vote, even then there were questions over the working class having rights.

Additionally, tens of millions of people have sacrificed their lives in world wars all in the name of democracy, we should feel ashamed about being cavalier concerning our own democratic entitlement. Last week I was speaking to a group of elderly ladies about politics and they actually shared many similar views as my younger friends, often feeling that politicians did not address their particular needs, and that they were invariably distrustful. However, nearly all of them voted in elections, their reasoning was simple, they were aware of the suffrage people had been through so as they have the rights they do today. Coupled with this they believed no one has the right to whinge if they choose not to exercise their vote. I feel the same, many of the issues that affect us day to day are innately political and bothering to vote at least means you can have your say.

For help registering to vote you can visit aboutmyvote.co.uk.