Compulsory Voting - an Act Against Human Right

There has been a decline in voter participation in many countries all over the world. Voting demonstrates the values of political participation and is a right that every citizen can take part in. While having this right, it is important that the individual is well informed on the issues in order to make their voice heard at the polls.

If the United States implemented compulsory voting for our national elections, some citizens would vote on issues and elect politicians based on very little interest or care. It is an infringement on our liberties and defeats the purpose of a democratic society. The freedom of choice also includes the freedom not to choose. Having the right to vote does not mean that you must vote. Voting is the responsibility of the citizens and all are encouraged to participate, but no law should force this responsibility.

A more informed populous may result in the government instituting compulsory voting due to the knowledge of the issues, whether for or against, and knowing that casting their ballet at the polls could make a difference in their lives. However, this is not the case in the United States. There are many citizens who simply choose not to get involved with politics, therefore, not educating themselves on the issues. Forcing these citizens to vote, in a sense, delivers false results. I am against any push to force people who have no interest in politics, who are uninformed on the issues and know very little about the candidates, to cast an uninformed or careless vote.

If I had the power to change our system, I would not change a thing. I do not think compulsory voting should be adopted and if someone does not want to vote, it is their choice not to do so. Forcing people who have no idea or interest in politics or current issues could cause an unqualified candidate to be elected, or worse, an issue they may have unintentionally voted for becoming law. I believe voting is a right and a civic duty, but you should still be able to choose to participate. Mandatory voting curtails our liberties, and those being forced to vote against their will are not going to dedicate the time to educate themselves in order to make a smart and informed decision that represents their values. Feeling as though your vote really matters may increase voter turnout in the future but seeing the benefit may be lost on many citizens in today's society.

I do not feel compulsory voting would be an issue our founding fathers would favor. If they thought it was necessary that all citizens participate in every election, then this would have been made law many years ago. A liberated democracy will ensure that its citizens are protected in their position, free and equal, and that they can openly choose to get involved or not. The belief is shared by many that voting is a civic duty by all who are under a single government.

Voting is a personal decision made by someone who is educated and informed on the issues and political leaders running. However, you can't force every citizen to care, educate themselves, or learn about a potential candidate. In a perfect world, everyone would do their part in making this country all it can potentially be, but compulsory voting is not the answer in getting citizens to the polls and should not be forced on anyone or be made law.