The Youth Who Help Share Meath: Voices of the Future

The Youth Who Help Share Meath: Voices of the Future

May 4, 2026 · 36 min · Episode 11

About this episode

This episode discusses the importance of engaging Gen Z in the electoral process and the efforts being made to modernize voter registration in Meath.

The future of Meath’s civil society hinges on the participation and democratic investment of its younger citizens. The engine of our society—Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012—has often struggled to make the crucial connection between voting and the decisions that directly impact their lives. With almost 70% of unregistered voters under the age of 34, there is a significant push to ensure every eligible young voice is heard. This episode dives into the national perspective on engaging with this vital demographic, detailing efforts to modernize the electoral register and combat misinformation. We explore how digital platforms like TikTok are being used to reach future voters and highlight the local work happening to nurture young democratic interest. Joining host Elaine Keogh are Art O’Leary, the Chief Executive at the Electoral Commission, and the Meath County Council register of electors team members Sheila Sheridan and Sharon McElroy, who detail how young people are actively shaping their county. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Engaging Gen Z and the voting challenge Digital engagement and pre-registration push Combating electoral misinformation globally Meath register team's role and…

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