Young people across the Highlands are being urged to register to vote as part of the 2025 Welcome To Your Vote Week campaign, which kicks off today.
The Highland Council is backing the initiative, led by the Electoral Commission, to promote democratic education among students and young people.
Each year, schools, colleges, universities, and youth groups are encouraged to engage with democracy, helping young people understand the power of their vote.
This year’s theme is “get informed and get involved,” with a focus on ensuring young people access trustworthy information about politics, democracy, and elections.
From learning about local representatives to exploring key issues or making a difference in their community, the campaign highlights multiple ways to engage with the democratic process.
Derek Brown, Returning Officer for the Highlands, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting the resources provided to secondary schools to support the campaign.
He emphasised that in Scotland, young people can register to vote from the age of 14, with those aged 16 and over eligible to vote in the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary election.
He encouraged young Highlanders to take advantage of this opportunity, start conversations about democracy, and secure their place on the electoral register now.
Registering to vote is a quick and simple process, taking just five minutes online.
Those aged 16 or older will need their National Insurance number, while those under 16 can register without one.
For those preferring a paper application, the Electoral Registration Officer can be contacted on 0800 393 783.
Lauren McKittrick, Highland Youth Convener, hopes this campaign will inspire young people to get involved in next year’s Scottish Parliamentary elections.
She stressed the importance of youth participation, noting that young voices are crucial in shaping the future and ensuring key issues reach decision-makers.
With 16-year-olds granted voting rights in Scotland, she sees this as a unique opportunity for young people to make a meaningful impact.
Welcome To Your Vote Week runs until Sunday 16 March, and more details can be found on the Electoral Commission’s website.
