Political youth organisations appeal to House of Representatives: let young people submit citizens' initiatives

A group of political youth organisations is calling on the Lower House to make it possible for young people aged 16 and above to submit and sign citizens' initiatives. The call comes from DWARS, the Young Democrats (D66), Young Socialists (PvdA), Pink! (PvdD), and Opposition (DENK). According to the organisations, it is a good way for young people who are not yet allowed to vote to still participate in our democracy. Recently, Prime Minister Rutte already called on young people to come up with their own new plans.

Currently, citizens' initiatives can only be submitted or supported by people who are 18 years or older. Changing the age at which citizens' initiatives can be submitted is relatively simple. This is because the Lower House itself decides on the rules regarding the submission of citizens' initiatives. There is therefore no need to submit a constitutional amendment, as in the case of lowering the voting age. A citizens' initiative is dealt with in the Lower House if it has 40,000 signatures.

Photo: During the PJO Parliament, young people learn to debate in the House of Representatives.