Fewer Voters in Schleswig-Holstein to Participate in German Bundestag Election
Kiel, Germany – The number of eligible voters in the northern German state of Schleswig-Holstein has decreased slightly ahead of the federal election on February 23, 2023.
According to state election official Tobias Berger, approximately 2,265,000 individuals are now registered to vote, marking a decline of 11,900 compared to the previous election in 2021. However, approximately 85,300 young voters will be casting their ballots for the first time, adding to the overall electorate.
Thirteen political parties will contest the election in Schleswig-Holstein, including the five parties currently represented in the state parliament (CDU, SPD, Grüne, FDP, and SSW). The AfD and Die Linke, which hold seats in the Bundestag (German federal parliament), will also participate.
Additional parties running in the northern state include the Free Voters, Die Partei led by satirist Martin Sonneborn, Volt, the Marxist-Leninist Party (MLPD), Bündnis Deutschland, and Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW).
Declining Voter Numbers Attributed to Population Trends
The decline in eligible voters in Schleswig-Holstein is primarily attributed to demographic changes, including a decrease in the size of the population and an aging population.
"The number of people moving out of Schleswig-Holstein is slightly higher than the number of people moving in," explained Berger. "Additionally, our population is getting older, which means that there are relatively fewer young people who are eligible to vote."
Efforts to Encourage Voter Participation
Despite the slight decline in voter numbers, election officials are committed to ensuring that eligible citizens participate in the democratic process.
"It is important for everyone to have their say in the future of our country," said Berger. "We are working hard to inform voters about the election and to make sure that they have the resources and support they need to cast their ballots."
Key Election Issues
The 2023 Bundestag election is expected to focus on a range of issues, including the economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and social justice. The war in Ukraine and its impact on Germany will also likely play a significant role in the campaign.
Voter Impact
The outcome of the election in Schleswig-Holstein will contribute to the overall makeup of the Bundestag, which will determine the next German government. A strong showing by the CDU, SPD, or Grüne could increase their chances of forming a coalition government.
Election Day Details
Polls will be open on February 23 from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Voters can cast their ballots at designated polling stations throughout Schleswig-Holstein.
Early voting is also available, with the first early voting day set for February 14. Voters can apply for a postal ballot if they are unable to vote in person.
Conclusion
While the number of eligible voters in Schleswig-Holstein has declined slightly, election officials are confident that the upcoming Bundestag election will be a competitive and closely contested race. The outcome of the election will have a significant impact on the future direction of Germany.
