October 29, 2025
RED FM News Desk
The Vancouver City Council is set to consider lowering the municipal voting age in the city to 16 years old.
Councillor Pete Fry is expected to introduce a motion on Wednesday that would see the city reiterate its support for reducing the minimum voting age from 18 and formally ask the Province of British Columbia to amend the Vancouver Charter to allow the change.
Councillor Fry argues that young people are directly impacted by political decisions across critical areas, including education, employment, housing, climate change and transportation.
He contends that 16- and 17-year-olds are increasingly engaged in civic issues and should be given the opportunity to participate in political life.
Fry argued, “At the age of 16, individuals can work, pay taxes, drive, and in some cases, be prosecuted as adults. Voting is consistent with these responsibilities.” His motion also points to several countries where the voting age is 16 for at least one level of government.
The authority to amend the Vancouver Charter to lower the voting age rests with the Provincial government (specifically, the Minister of Municipal Affairs).
While the City awaits a potential amendment from the Provincial government, Fry’s motion will also direct City staff to explore youth engagement opportunities for the next municipal election, which is scheduled for October 2026.
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