Polling stations are aging, municipalities are looking for ‘young blood’
The average age of polling station employees is increasing. Municipalities see an aging population in the polling stations and are trying to encourage young people to play a role in elections. For the time being, it is still possible to recruit sufficient volunteers.
The ANP has made a tour of about two hundred municipalities. Dijk en Waard (North Holland), among others, says it has experienced problems in recruiting enough residents for Wednesday’s House of Representatives elections. “We see that the average age at the polling station is very high. Aging plays a major role. We have been looking for young blood for a number of years,” the municipality said.
Also in Best, North Brabant, there were “more than enough registrations in the age group 65+”, but “significantly fewer residents who are younger” registered.
The Groningen municipality of Eemsdelta says it has had more difficulty than usual in getting all polling stations occupied. “We notice that people are less willing to help and that interest is declining. In addition, it remains difficult to inspire young people. There is enthusiasm among citizens, but this is also minimal.”
Municipalities such as Heerlen, Harderwijk, Heemskerk, Boekel, Kaag en Braassem and Roerdalen report that they have few people available as a reserve in case a polling station member or vote counter fails.