Belgium's Council of Ministers recently decided that minors aged 16 and above will be permitted to cast their votes in the June 2024 European elections without the obligation of

prior registration.

The nation initially reduced the voting age for European elections to 16 in spring 2022, becoming the fourth European country to do so, followed later by Germany. However, the Belgian Constitutional Court raised objections concerning the prerequisite for underage voters to register beforehand. Consequently, the Council of Ministers concluded to eliminate the registration stipulation.

Unlike adult voters in Belgium, underage citizens won't face compulsory voting regulations. Although Belgians aged 16 or 17 hold the privilege to vote in the European Parliament elections, they possess the autonomy to opt-out if they so desire.

Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden conveyed that not all young individuals are politically engaged at this juncture. "Those inclined and adequately informed can exercise this opportunity. Others might choose to wait a little longer," she remarked when unveiling the decision.

Verlinden hailed the move as "a significant signal to young people, emphasizing that their voice matters, and that their participation is valued in shaping our democracy." Additionally, she highlighted Europe's competencies in pivotal areas such as climate change and mobility, intending to captivate the interest and involvement of young individuals.