There
are 11 candidates vying for the role of representing young people in Aberdeen
following the opening of elections for the Scottish Youth Parliament on Monday 6 November.
The
Scottish Youth Parliament is the democratically elected voice of Scotland’s
young people. Around 160 young people aged 14-25 are elected every two
years to represent every part of Scotland and to campaign for positive change.
The
11 candidates are standing for election to represent a total of six seats in the Aberdeen
Central, Aberdeen Donside and Aberdeen South & North Kincardine
constituency wards.
Councillor
Martin Greig, the Convener of Education and Children’s Services Committee,
Aberdeen City Council, said: “Aberdeen is an inclusive city where local
democracy, youth participation and listening to young people is extremely
important. It is vital that our young people know that they are valued and that
they are empowered. The Youth Parliament is an excellent way to connect and be
heard.
“By
voting in the Scottish Youth Parliament elections, young people choose their
own representatives who are able to speak up on their behalf. This is a
welcome, effective process for influencing decision-makers.”
Voting
is open to young people, aged 12 to 25, across Scotland. Young people in
Aberdeen can cast their votes online using their Young Scot National
Entitlement Card.
Voting
closes at 6pm on Sunday 19 November 2023. The results will be declared on
Monday 20 November, World Children’s Day.
The
votes from young people give the elected Members of the Scottish Youth
Parliament (MSYPs) their democratic mandate to represent the views of
Scotland’s young people on local and national issues.