Number of Brazilian youth voters severely declines since last election

Global Business

In June 2013, Brazil saw its biggest street protests in decades with thousands of people taking part from all over the country. The demonstrations were started and largely filled by Brazil’s young people.

This year, voter registration figures suggested widespread apathy among Brazilian teenagers. CCTV America’s Paulo Cabral reports.

Follow Paulo Cabral on Twitter @paulonumundo

Voting in Brazil is mandatory from the age of 18 and optional from 16. In the 2010 election, 2.4 million teenagers aged 16 and 17 voluntarily registered to vote. This year, the registrations are down to 1.6 million.

Analysts said many Brazilian young people didn’t feel the country’s political system serves their interests.