Legal Definitions - jus suffragii

Jus suffragii refers to the fundamental legal right of a citizen to cast a vote in public elections or referendums. It is the entitlement that allows individuals to participate in choosing their representatives or deciding on public policy.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of jus suffragii:

• Example 1: Women's Suffrage Movement

  In the early 20th century, women in many countries campaigned vigorously for the right to vote. Prior to this, their jus suffragii was largely denied, meaning they were legally excluded from participating in elections. When laws were eventually passed granting women the right to vote, it signified the recognition and establishment of their jus suffragii, allowing them to fully engage in the democratic process.

• Example 2: Constitutional Voting Age

  A nation's constitution stipulates that all citizens who are 18 years of age or older possess the right to vote in federal and local elections. This constitutional provision explicitly defines and guarantees the jus suffragii for all adult citizens, ensuring that once they reach the specified age, they are legally entitled to cast their ballot.

• Example 3: Felon Disenfranchisement Laws

  In some jurisdictions, laws exist that temporarily or permanently revoke the voting rights of individuals convicted of certain felonies. For a person who has been convicted of such a crime, their jus suffragii may be suspended, meaning they legally lose their entitlement to vote for a period or indefinitely, even if they are otherwise citizens.