The Estonian parliament, the Riigikogu, has approved legislation lowering the voting age to 16 for elections to the European Parliament. This change, effective beginning in 2029, will also permit individuals aged 18 to stand as candidates in these elections. The new law aims to increase youth participation in European democratic processes. Supporters argue that 16-year-olds are sufficiently politically aware to make informed decisions. The legislation represents a significant shift in Estonia's electoral policies, aligning it with a growing number of European nations considering similar changes. This move is expected to encourage greater engagement among young Estonians with the European Union and its institutions.