Registration matters: Explaining youth voter participation in British Columbia

This study explores why voter turnout is higher among some youth then others in British Columbia and evaluates the ability of demographic, institutional and engagement variables to predict which youth vote. The primary source of data is Elections BC for the 2001 and 2005 election. Supplemental data is acquired through BC Stats, the Canadian Federation of Students, and Check Your Head. Ordinary Least Square regressions are estimated using a dozen explanatory variables. Statistical analysis indicates that being registered to vote is the greatest predictor of voting among youth in British Columbia. In assessing policy alternatives, this study suggests that Elections BC should engage with post secondary institutions in a voter registration partnership and a communications partnership effort in order to foster greater electoral participation among youth.