Five ways you can make a difference to Jersey's future

In Jersey we are incredibly fortunate to live in a place where democracy isn’t just an abstract idea – it’s a reality. For many people though, politics can feel like something far off – something that happens elsewhere and is done by other people.

From 22-28 September 2025, Jersey celebrated its 6th annual Democracy Week with a series of events and initiatives helping Islanders learn more about Jersey’s political system and history and to highlight ways to take part.

There are many ways that you can make a difference. Whether it’s through voting, campaigning, giving feedback, or taking the bold step of standing for election, Jersey’s political system works at its best when people get involved.

But where can you start and what can you do? Here are just some of the ways you can take part to make a difference…

Campaigning for what matters most

Have you ever felt strongly about an issue? Is there something that affects your environment, your community or rights? Campaigning is a powerful tool that you can use to push for change and improvement.

In Jersey, campaigning can take a variety of different forms. You can organise events to raise awareness, you can share your message on social media or across your local Parish, you can contact your elected representatives in the States Assembly. You just need to harness your energy, passion and persistence and find the best way to get your message across.

Starting a petition for change

Looking for a direct method to bring an issue to the attention of the States Assembly and the public? You can start a petition. It’s possible to start an online petition using the States Assembly’s e-petition system or you can start a hard copy petition. Speak to States Members to see if you can find an elected representative who would be willing to present your hard copy petition to the States Assembly and you might be able to have your petition debated.

Petitions can be a brilliant tool to raise concerns or to suggest solutions to problems. E-petitioning is open to Jersey residents and there’s no cost to start a petition. You can start your e-petition with the support of 5 other individuals and you can spread the word by sharing your petition on social media.

Read more about how to start petitions in Jersey.

Giving feedback on Scrutiny Reviews

Scrutiny’s job is to hold the government to account. The Panels investigate policies, draft laws, decisions and spending to ensure that everything is being done in the public’s best interest. You might have heard people referring to Scrutiny Panels as the government’s ‘critical friend’. Scrutiny is most effective with the input of Islanders who are able to contribute their own personal experiences and insights.

When Scrutiny Panels launch a review, they count on Islanders to share their views, their feedback and experiences of government services, proposed changes or new laws. Whether you are a professional with expertise or a citizen with lived experience, your input can make for stronger decision-making and ensure that the action taken by government reflects the daily realities for people living in Jersey.

You can – and should – get involved and share your feedback with Scrutiny.

Turn out to vote in elections from the age of 16

You can vote from the age of 16 in Jersey. That’s not just a privilege – it’s real power!

By the time Jersey’s next major election day comes round – on Sunday 7 June 2026 – more people than ever before will be eligible to vote. That’s because the eligibility requirements will have changed. Anyone who will be aged 16 or over by election day and has been living in Jersey for a minimum of one year will be registered and eligible to vote on Sunday 7 June 2026. (You’ll also be eligible if you’re aged 16 or over and have lived in Jersey for 6 months leading up to election day, plus periods of time that total at least 5 years. So if you’ve lived here before and returned, you may still be eligible.)

Voting is a powerful and effective way to shape the future of the Island. Choosing representatives who share your values is the starting point of influencing the direction of policies on housing, education, health, the economy and more. It’s vital you use your vote if you want have any influence over the things that matter to you.

Every vote really does count. Sometimes elections are won by just a handful of votes, so if you want a say in what happens next, don’t miss out or skip your turn. Check that you are registered to vote and be certain to have your voice heard at the ballot box!

Stand for election to the States Assembly in 2026 or beyond

Be honest – how many times have you thought ‘Someone should really do something about that’?

Well, what if that someone is you?

If you are a British Citizen aged 18 or over, then you can stand for election to the States Assembly. In 2026, you could stand to be the Constable of the Parish you live in, you could be a Deputy representing a constituency or you could aim for the role of Senator and represent the whole Island. You could be an independent candidate or stand with a political party, and you don’t need to be an expert on everything or have a background in law or public policy. What matters most is that you have a commitment to serve, to listen and to lead with honesty and integrity.

Jersey needs elected representatives from all walks of life. If you care about the Island’s future and you want to make a difference, consider putting your name forward at election time.

Learn more about standing for election to the States Assembly using our Essential Guide.

You can shape Jersey’s future

You’ve probably heard it said before – ‘democracy is not a spectator sport’. People have power and should feel they can use that power. Everyone has something valuable to contribute, and that includes you. Have a conversation, start a campaign, vote in every election you possibly can, or even stand for election. Your actions can shape the policies and inform the priorities that affect life in our Island.

There’s so much potential to do something. Who can make a difference? You can.

Five ways you can make a difference