opportunites

• Describe one opportunity to participate in democracy - voting


  One way citizens can participate in politics is by voting. Voting takes place at election time when the whole country (aged 16 and over in Scotland) is given the opportunity to choose who they want to represent them and run the country. Elections to the Scottish Parliament take place every five years. For example, in the 2021 Scottish Parliament elections, 63% of people voted which was a record high and the SNP won.
• describe one way people can participate in democracy - standing as a candidate


  One way citizens can participate is by standing as a candidate.

  A party member - or independent candidate - can decide to put their name forward as a candidate at election time - if the candidate is successful they would represent members of the public. For example, the candidate could become an MP, MSP or Local Councillor and be directly involved in representing and decision making. For example, the MSP for Cunninghame North is Kenneth Gibson.