Why Should Scots Abroad Have a Right to Vote in Independence Referendums?

The debate over whether Scots who have moved abroad should be able to vote in Scottish independence referendums is a complex and often contentious topic. This article explores the rationale behind allowing such expatriates to vote, analyzes historical precedents, and discusses the implications of this issue within the context of Scottish nationalism.

Background and Context

If Scotland were to become independent, it would be natural for former citizens to maintain a significant connection to their homeland. For instance, if someone born in Scotland later lived and worked in Wales, they might hold both a Scottish and a UK passport. In such cases, the common practice would be to grant them voting rights. The primary argument is that being born in or raised in Scotland inherently entitles one to a say in its future.

The UK’s EU referendum in 2016 provided a precedent where expatriates were allowed to vote if they had lived in the EU for less than 15 years. This decision, however, was controversial, and the situation with Scottish independence referendums remains less clear-cut.

Experiences and Perceptions

My personal experience in Aran with a Scottish mother who now resides in England in 2014 provides a glimpse into this complex scenario. We encountered three distinct families during our holiday:

An Israeli lecturer at a Glasgow university with his young son. A Canadian lecturer at Edinburgh university with two children.

These “blow ins,” as expatriates are sometimes called, were surprised to have the right to vote in the Scottish independence referendum. However, my Scottish mother, who still retains a significant Scottish lilt, was unable to vote despite her deep roots.

Interestingly, all three expatriates indicated they would vote “yes” for Scottish independence, motivated by the strong encouragement from friends in Scotland. Their decision to support independence illustrates the lingering connection many Scots maintain with their homeland, even after living abroad.

Nationalist Hypocrisy and the Claim of Right 1689

The discourse around Scottish nationalism presents a peculiar paradox when it comes to voting rights. The belief in the sovereignty of individuals, as evidenced by the Claim of Right 1689, suggests that people are the governing force in Scotland. This principle is often cited to argue for a democratic and inclusive approach to national identity.

However, when it comes to specific referendums, the nationalist movement seems to draw a clear line based on residency rather than nationality. For example:

Scottish soldiers in the army were denied the right to vote in the 2014 referendum, a decision that many see as a form of political maneuvering to secure a pro-independence result. Expatriates like those I encountered in Aran were initially given the right to vote, only to be denied later when their vote could have swayed the outcome.

This hypocrisy is emblematic of a broader issue within nationalist movements: while the principle of people over place is rhetorically powerful, it is often applied selectively to suit political ends.

A Lack of Organized Campaigning and Interest

Despite the existence of such expatriates, there is no organized campaign calling for their right to vote. Neither the Scottish government nor the Scottish National Party (SNP) seems to have any interest in this issue. This lack of enthusiasm could be attributed to a pragmatic decision: they do not believe it would benefit their cause.

It is also worth noting that there are questions about the eligibility of expatriates. The concept of “Scottishness” is often defined geographically, which could limit who qualifies to vote. For example, someone who has lived in Scotland for less than a certain period might not be seen as “Scottish enough” to have a say in an independence referendum.

Conclusion

The debate over allowing Scots abroad to vote in independence referendums is a manifestation of the complex interplay between national identity, voting rights, and political maneuvering. While the rhetoric often boasts of inclusivity and the people’s right to decide, the practical application often excludes those who have left Scotland but still maintain significant ties to the country.

As the discourse around Scottish independence continues, it will be essential to address these inconsistencies to ensure a fair and inclusive process. The rights of expatriates to vote should be considered alongside broader discussions about national identity and democratic principles.