Submission on the Electoral Reform Bill

Mana Mokopuna opposes the Bill’s proposed amendments relating to closing enrolment early, removing same-day enrolment, and imposing a blanket ban on prisoner voting. These proposed amendments fail to protect the rights of young people to vote and participate in democracy.

Mana Mokopuna advocates for the Bill to be amended to include provisions to lower the voting age to 16 years and to have a meaningful say in decisions that impact their daily lives as current and future citizens, as provided under the Children’s Convention.

Before proceeding with the Bill any further, the Government should consult with young people, from all backgrounds, including those in prison, on the proposed changes, and make further amendments to the Bill to give effect to their views.

Passing this Bill as it is would be a backwards step in Aotearoa New Zealand’s civil and political rights framework, and a missed opportunity to give effect to the Government’s obligations under the Children’s Convention and Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Instead of undermining the civil and political rights of young people, Aotearoa New Zealand should be taking steps to progress and fulfil these more comprehensively.