From early morning, polling stations across Hanoi were bustling with voters arriving to exercise their civic rights and responsibilities. Among the crowds were many young faces appearing on the voter rolls. For many of them, holding a ballot for the first time marks an important step into adulthood, as they formally take part in the nation’s political life. 

At a polling station in Bach Mai Ward, 12th grader Nguyen Thao Trang carefully checked the list of candidates before entering the voting area. Ahead of election day, the newly turned 18-year-old had spent time learning about the candidates in her residential area. “I feel very honored to take part in the elections. I know how important it is, so I took time to learn about the candidates and see who truly deserves my vote,” said Trang.

Like Trang, many first-time young voters actively sought information about the candidates through official communication channels, voter meetings, and activities organized by youth unions and local authorities. For the younger generation, voting is not only a right but also a way to express their responsibility to the community and society. Here are some voices from voters on Election Day.

“I feel very honored to have turned 18 and to be able to take part in this year’s elections. It means a lot to me because I feel I can contribute to the country. I took time to learn about the candidates and their policies.”

“Taking part in an election for the first time is a special milestone for me. It is not only a right but also a duty of a citizen who has just turned 18. I hope the new National Assembly will pay more attention to policies related to education, digital transformation, employment and the environment, issues that directly affect the future of young people.”

“Each ballot is the voice of a citizen, and for us, it represents the voice of the younger generation. A single vote may seem small, but millions of votes together will help shape a National Assembly and People’s Councils that reflect the spirit of the times.”

Beyond exercising their voting rights, many young people have also directly supported election operations. 

“University students represent a large and dynamic force in Hanoi. Youth unions at several universities have coordinated with local youth unions to assist with election activities. Students are not only voters but also active ambassadors who help spread awareness and a sense of civic responsibility to their families, friends and communities,” said Nguyen Tien Hung, Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union in Hanoi.

The proactive spirit, responsibility and dynamism of the younger generation reflect growing confidence in the role of youth in the country’s political and social life, as they join efforts to build a stronger capital city and a more prosperous nation in the years ahead.