Get Informed

Studies show that voter turnout among Canadians is at an unprecedented low. In fact, with a few exceptions, voter turnout has been declining since the late 1980s.

Elections Canada is especially concerned about the low voter turnout for 18- to 24-year-olds, because today’s youth are the future of this country.

According to Elections Canada’s research, young voter turnout was only 37% in the 2008 federal election.

Canada’s youth have often commented that there is little in politics that relates to them. As well, they have told us that they don’t have all the information they need to cast an informed vote.

If you feel the same way, the links below have some answers about the electoral process and just might make you think about how, when and where to participate in the next election:

• Discover some interesting trivia and historical tidbits about democracy, elections and voting in Canada with our Facts and Figures.
• Have a look at our list of Frequently Asked Questions.
• Ask yourself, "Why Should I Vote?" and find some answers to that question.
• Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes at Elections Canada? The Electoral System of Canada explains how Canadian elections are run and describes key aspects of the federal electoral process.
• Use the Members of Parliament tool to find out more about Canada’s political parties and your local member of Parliament.