Universal Adult Suffrage Around the World: Who Has the Right to Vote?

To determine the right to vote in a nation, we must consider the foundational documents and laws that govern this right. The U.S. Constitution, while a cornerstone of American governance, does not explicitly grant the right to vote; instead, it prohibits certain forms of discrimination. Here, we will explore the historical context and current practices regarding who has the right to vote in the United States and around the world.

The Historical Context in the United States

According to the U.S. Constitution, the right to vote is not guaranteed. In the 1874 case of Minor v. Happersett, the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed that while women were citizens, the vote was not a constitutional right. It cited historical examples where only property owners could vote to support this view. It wasn’t until the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920 that it became illegal to deny the right to vote based on sex. However, in 2023, approximately half a million U.S. citizens are still unable to vote for president due to outstanding court fees or fines, among other restrictions.

Amendments and Prohibitions

The 15th Amendment prohibited denying the vote based on race but did not stop states from requiring a "poll tax," which effectively excluded many poor individuals, especially blacks. The 24th Amendment, ratified in 1964, made it unconstitutional to deny the vote based on a poll tax. The 26th Amendment, adopted in 1971, made it illegal to deny the vote to citizens aged 18 and above.

Current Voter Eligibility Restrictions in the U.S.

Florida exemplifies contemporary voter eligibility restrictions, where individuals with outstanding court fees or fines are denied the right to vote. Many states require pre-registration, and residency criteria are still in place, though their legality can vary. States also deny the vote to individuals serving felony sentences and those on probation. Strict photo ID voter requirements are also enforced in many states.

Overseas Voting and Non-Citizen Residents

Even in countries that adopt universal adult suffrage, there can be restrictions based on citizenship and residency. In the United Kingdom, for example, convicted criminals serving prison sentences are typically denied the right to vote. Beyond these nations, several countries, such as Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union, allow certain non-citizen residents to vote, but these rights are often confined to local or municipal elections. In exceptional cases, such as in New Zealand, all legal permanent residents can vote in both local and national elections, though the right to stand as a candidate is restricted to citizens only.

Comparative Analysis of Voter Eligibility

Canada and the United States offer more restrictive forms of suffrage, where the right to vote and run for public office is reserved for citizens, with only a few municipal elections making exceptions. On the broader end of the spectrum, New Zealand is a rare example where all legal permanent residents can vote, including in national elections. This model is in stark contrast to that of the U.S., where certain legal residents, such as those with outstanding court fees, are still barred from voting.

In conclusion, while some countries practice universal adult suffrage, the right to vote remains highly context-dependent, influenced by historical decisions, legal amendments, and contemporary practices. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone seeking to engage in the democratic process.