In a move drawing sharp criticism, Ireland now allows refugees and asylum seekers to vote in local elections — no citizenship required. Just an ID card, and the ballot is yours.
While most nations safeguard their democratic systems for citizens, Ireland’s government has flung the gates open, giving political influence to newcomers who haven’t fully integrated, contributed, or pledged allegiance.
Critics argue this erodes national identity and dilutes the meaning of citizenship — effectively allowing foreign voices to shape local governance with no long-term accountability.
