The Impact of Age of Candidacy Laws on Youth Political Representation | Chicago Center on Democracy + Centre for Youth Policy

Age-of-candidacy laws determine the minimum age at which individuals can run for elected office. While often overlooked in discussions about democratic participation, these legal thresholds play a critical role in shaping who has access to political leadership and whose perspectives are represented in public institutions. In many countries, the age required to run for office remains significantly higher than the voting age, creating structural barriers that limit the participation of younger generations in political decision-making.

This event will explore how age-of-candidacy laws influence youth political representation, voter engagement, and broader perceptions of political legitimacy. The discussion will examine how these laws interact with cultural attitudes toward youth leadership, party structures, and institutional norms that shape pathways into public office. It will also consider ongoing reform efforts around the world aimed at lowering candidacy ages and expanding opportunities for younger leaders to participate in democratic governance.

The program will begin with remarks from Sudhanshu Kaushik, author of The Future is Ours: The Political Promise of India’s Youth and founder of the Centre for Youth Policy. Drawing from comparative research and his work supporting youth political participation globally, Kaushik will discuss how age thresholds influence democratic inclusion and what changes could mean for the future of political representation.

Following the opening remarks, the event will feature a student-focused discussion exploring the broader implications of age-of-candidacy laws and the role of younger generations in shaping democratic institutions.