In three key European states a majority of adults back compulsory voting but opinions in the United States are far more divided.
Compulsory Voting articles on Democracy Chronicles
Compulsory voting requires eligible citizens to register for and participate in democratic elections, usually through fines as penalties for not voting. Also see our main section on American democracy and our archives for Voter Access and Voter ID.
Democracy Vouchers: Seattle Voters Get $100 This Week
Most people don’t know it yet but there are democracy vouchers. Seattle is paying voters $100 for voting for their favorite mayor this week.
Bill Would Create $20 Penalty for Connecticut Non-Voters
Mandatory voting with a potential monetary penalty is just one of about 30 election-related bills that have been submitted to the General Assembly.
VIDEO: How Sausages And Donkeys Get Australians Out To Vote
More than 90% of eligible Australians are expected to vote in the election on 18 May – because it’s one of the few countries to have compulsory voting.
US Can Benefit From Australia’s Compulsory Voting System
In Australia in 2016, about 87 percent of voting-age people participated in the nation’s federal election, or 91 percent of enrolled voters.
Kentucky Professor Outlines The Case For Mandatory Voting
A University of Kentucky law professor is suggesting mandatory voting may be the change necessary to improve voter turnout.
Illinois Lawmaker Proposes $25 Tax Credits For Voters
Freshman state Senator Ram Villivalam, D-Chicago, introduces’ legislation that would give a $25 state tax credit for anyone who votes in a general election.
Follow Australia and Make Voting Compulsory in Zimbabwe
MDC-T deputy president Nelson Chamisa has called for compulsory voting among Zimbabweans
Make Voting Compulsory to End Voter Suppression
Engaged and informed citizens are a necessary condition for effective democracy
Some Surprising Voting Day Practices From Around the World
Compulsory voting, drinking bans, celebratory gunfire, and shamans are some unusual voting day practices