What is universal suffrage

Universal suffrage is the legal right to vote for all adult citizens, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or social or economic status. It is a fundamental principle of democratic governance, ensuring that all people have an equal say in the selection of their political representatives and the decisions that affect their lives. Universal suffrage has been achieved in many countries around the world, but access to the ballot box is still restricted or limited in others.

Universal suffrage is the principle that all adult citizens, regardless of their race, gender, wealth, or social status, have the right to vote in elections. It ensures that every eligible individual has an equal opportunity to participate in the democratic process and have a say in choosing their representatives and leaders. Universal suffrage is considered a fundamental democratic right and is a cornerstone of modern democracies.