Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Democracy goes digital




Millennials are leaving modern democracy behind. We're always online, constantly communicating, the first to pick up on new tech innovations, and actively engaging with the world. We're always listening and learning, always aware, always inventing ways to make people's lives a little bit better. We're exactly the kind of people that politicians want on their side – so why hasn't Westminster done more to keep up?

Through our online surveys and our event last week, you've told us that you do care about the challenges and issues facing us today but that you're not sure which party, if any, represents you best. You said that if leaders want to engage, they need to do something more meaningful than hit the beach in a baseball cap, and that the archaic, difficult voting system puts some of you off. Bite The Ballot's latest innovation #LeadersLive aims to take care of all that.

#LeadersLive gives you the opportunity to put your questions directly to party leaders about what's really happening with issues like affordable housing, the cost of living, and the gender pay gap. Each leader, including David Cameron and Ed Miliband, have chosen three main issues they'd like to focus on, but you can cast your vote here to pick the fourth.

Less than 40% of the population are expected to turn out to vote next year – that means us millennials could have a bigger voice than ever. This is the first time Prime Minister David Cameron, Labour leader Ed Miliband, Nick Clegg of the Lib Dems, and Ukip's Nigel Farage will answer directly to us, and it all kicks off tomorrow night with Natalie Bennett, leader of the Green Party.


Remember – these people need our votes, so let's show them exactly what we want from them. Perhaps, if they know we care, they'll start taking what we care about more seriously.


Democracy goes digital