What if everyone could vote?

It is fundamental in a true democracy that people have a political voice. But in the UK, democracy is not equal nor universal.

Instead, Its state of affairs which results in millions of adults without local or national voting rights. Its state of affairs warps representation in Parliament as MP’s constituency boundaries are drawn to registered voters and not the actual number of people living there.

There are so many reasons that disenfranchisement harms both migrants, communities and our democracy. In calling for residence-based voting rights, Migrant Democracy Project recognises the importance of having the political voice and right to participate in our democracy.

1 in 6 residents in England and Wales were born abroad, 16% of the population. Our democracy must remain equal and representative for all in our society.

Every extension of the franchise has brought the UK forward. Moving and migration are positive and natural.

Our current voter eligibility system is a complex labyrinth of bespoke historic deals with different countries and treaties that vary depending on where in the UK you are. It is a messy and unfair system. The UK needs electoral reform, and the people support this change. The time is now.

Residence-based voting rights recognises that all people are equal and deserve a political stake in their home – regardless of where they were born or their nationality.

Learn more in our new report: What if everyone could vote? Mapping unenfranchised residents across the UK