Participation

• One way in which individuals can participate in politics is by standing as a candidate. Individuals can put themselves forward in an election to represent their constituents in local councils, the Scottish parliament and even the UK parliament. For example, in the 2021 elections Nicola Sturgeon put herself forward.
• Another way an individual can participate in politics is by joining a political party. People can sign up to any one of the political parties in Scotland, pay for membership and proceed to actively support the party. For example there are over 100,000 members of SNP making it the largest party in Scotland.
• A final way an individual can participate in politics is by joining a pressure group. Anyone can join a pressure group which is a very powerful way for citizens to express their opinions. For example, many people are members and supporters of greenpeace because they are concerned about the environment.