Not many expatriates participate actively in politics once they have moved abroad, which is the case worldwide. But does being an expat mean you are not allowed to get involved in your country or city's decision-making process?
Why is it difficult for expats to integrate local politics?
Voting, which is a civic act, is already complicated for expatriates, so getting involved in political life by being a candidate for elections (even local ones) is another challenge. It almost looks impossible, regardless of the country you have moved to.
In most countries, only nationals can actively take part in political life. But in some of them, expatriates are still allowed to vote (under certain conditions). However, running for local elections is rarely an option for foreigners, no matter how long they have lived in a country.
The European exception
Things are slightly different for European expats who have relocated to another country member of the European Union. According to the Treaty of Maastricht from 1992, European nationals can vote in the municipal elections of the European city where they reside under certain conditions. This usually differs from country to country, but, in general, expats who wish to vote have to prove their residence in the country and the city. In fact, a minimum residency period is required, and they have to fill in a request form to benefit from such civic rights. So if you want to vote in your host city or country, seek all the necessary information first.
In the European Union, where non-national residents account for more than 20% of all voters, there may be additional rules for expatriates who wish to vote, such as proof of a more extended period of residence (as in Luxembourg). In addition, some countries, such as France, have special conditions for expats keen on participating in local politics. For instance, non-nationals can run for municipal councilor elections but cannot aspire to be a mayor or deputy mayor.
Outside Europe, things are even more complicated for expats who want to get involved in local politics. Still, some countries are more flexible than others and do provide options for long-term foreign residents.
Which countries are more open in political terms?
Nordic countries are way ahead when it comes to social progress, including access to politics and decision-making for expats. Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, as well as Ireland, have allowed immigrants, even those coming from countries outside the European Union, to participate in local elections. What's more, these expats don't only have the right to vote but also the possibility of running for elections. Outside the EU, Argentina, Chile, Ireland and New Zealand also allow immigrants to participate in local politics, but under certain conditions.
How can you participate in local politics as an expat?
Each country has different rules according, so your options as an expat will depend on the policy in force, your residence status within the country, and the type of commitment you wish to have. Our advice is that if you want to participate in local politics, start by inquiring about the possibilities locally. Feel free to ask the people around you and see whether any expat has actually held any type of decision-making position in your host city. Depending on your residence status, especially if you obtain dual nationality or naturalize, you might be entitled to greater civic rights.
Can you participate in politics as an expat without running for elections?
You may still be able to participate in local politics even if you're not keen on being a candidate in the municipal elections. The right to vote is already a big step forward. Start by finding out whether you are eligible and under what conditions. Another option is to join trade unions or political parties. In most countries, except for Mexico, Russia, South Africa and some Asian countries, foreigners are free to join such organizations.
The best thing you can do is to get closer to your town hall, the leading political organizations in your city, and possibly immigrant associations. These will be able to help and guide you regarding your rights and your options, depending on your resident status and your nationality. So, in the end, taking part in local politics isn't as utopia as it seems to be, as evidenced by Brussels Voice recently.
