The voices of UK citizens abroad must be heard

Although all UK citizens living abroad will soon be able to vote (currently only those who have lived abroad for 15 years can vote), they will find their voices muted by a weak system of representation in Westminster.  They will be represented by the MP from their last place of residence in the UK (which they might have left over 30 or 40 years ago).  The chances are that their MP will have had little experience of dealing with the issues citizens abroad regularly face.  This means their issues are often not addressed, or only poorly addressed by their MP. 

This is why we need change now. 

With overseas constituencies (areas designated as a district for the representation of eligible voters residing temporarily or permanently abroad), we can ensure UK citizens living abroad are properly represented by MPs whose bread and butter is dealing with the challenges UK residents abroad face. 

Currently, 17 countries, including several European countries – Croatia, France, Italy, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Portugal, and Romania have set up a system with overseas constituencies. 

The UK could implement such a system through a two-stage process: first, running a registration drive for eligible citizens, and second, determining the number of MPs, based on the registered number of overseas voters, and set by the Boundary Commission using the typical UK constituency electorate.  The creation of overseas constituencies would not need to diminish the current number of constituencies.  They could be supplemental.

Unlock Democracy, in partnership with New Europeans UK, will press for the incorporation of overseas constituencies in the UK parliament.

We believe that overseas constituencies:

Strengthen Representation for those living abroad: overseas constituencies ensure that eligible voters residing abroad have dedicated representation, acknowledging that their territorial links to UK constituencies may weaken over time.

Align Interests for all UK citizens overseas: Overseas voters share concerns and interests with other UK citizens residing abroad, particularly for those who live in the EU regarding the challenges arising from the loss of EU citizenship.

Simplify Participation for those abroad: Establishing overseas constituencies simplifies the registration and voting process for UK citizens abroad, providing them with a more streamlined and efficient way to participate in elections.

You can add your support for our joint Overseas Constituencies campaign by signing the petition, sharing the campaign on social media or sending your MP or soon-to-be MP (if you have lived abroad for over 15 years) this pre-written email.

NB: If you want to contact an MP, you will need to provide a postcode located in their constituency.