Evidence from Germany: Does reducing the voting age to 16 lead to higher turnout at elections?

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Lowering the voting age is a contentious issue, but the German example is a strong argument in favor of advocates’ causes. Different German states have long set voting ages of 16 or 18, and now 16-year old Germans can vote in federal elections. It turns out that the states where people have been voting since 16 post consistently greater turnout across multiple age groups. Read full article here

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Improving media literacy could boost trust towards the news, IMPRESS report suggests

The UK media is regulated by the likes of IPSO and Ofcom. The report by press regulator IMPRESS highlights the link between low levels of media literacy and trust in the news. The study found that three quarters of those who did not know if journalists were regulated did not trust the news. It suggests that improving media literacy is one way to stem the erosion of trust, and shows that audiences have an appetite for information on news processes. Stakeholders need to collaborate in order to rebuild trust in the news, and independent media is well placed to do this. Read full article here

Merv February 1, 2023
Human Interest Story

Lawsuit Claims Microwave Mac and Cheese Takes Too Long

Kraft Heinz is facing a new lawsuit from a Florida woman claiming that their microwavable Velveeta Shells and Cheese cups do not actually take only 3.5 minutes to prepare, as advertised. Lead plaintiff Amanda Ramirez’s lawsuit alleges that the four steps required to prepare the meal means that it takes longer than 3.5 minutes, and has asked for at least $5 million in punitive damages. Kraft Heinz have defended the allegations, but the case will likely take more than 3.5 minutes to resolve. Read full article here

Merv February 1, 2023

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