Understanding Voter Turnout Trends in Democratic Elections
Maya Ezzeddine
Why some people vote and others stay home, and what makes a difference to turnout.
Turnout varies widely between countries and between elections in the same country. Researchers have identified several factors that make a difference.
What helps
Easy registration, early and postal voting, and elections that feel close all tend to increase turnout. Young people are more likely to vote if they were contacted directly by a campaign or a friend.
What holds people back
Long queues, confusing rules and a sense that their vote will not change anything keep some voters at home. Local initiatives that make voting simpler have shown measurable results.