Jacqueline McLaren, Lord Provost of Glasgow, speak with students at Glasgow City Chambers.
Credit: Jason Fong / Strathclyde Telegraph
Struck by the marble interiors of Glasgow City Chambers, students were welcomed into the Lord Provost’s dining room, where, after climbing the grand staircase and passing through the building’s historic halls, they were offered refreshments.
The conversations over tea, coffee, and pastries did not drift far from politics.
The Glasgow City Chambers tour, which included a meeting with the Lord Provost, Jacqueline McLaren, formed part of a civic engagement campaign led by Strathclyde Students’ Union President Fraser Brown.
The initiative, delivered in collaboration with the Strathclyde Telegraph, aimed to encourage student participation in the upcoming elections.
As the Lord Provost entered the room with a warm smile, she invited students to take their seats and speak openly in an informal discussion.
The conversation soon turned to the importance of political participation among young people, particularly in the run-up to the Scottish Parliament election 2026.
While holding a non-political civic role, the Lord Provost emphasised that she continues to take part in elections, underlining the importance of voting regardless of position or background. She also stressed that it is especially important for young people to use their vote.
“I always vote,” said McLaren, “because one vote can make a difference.”
She also highlighted the broader responsibility of voters in a democratic system, stressing the importance of engaging with differing perspectives.
“You need to listen to other voices, even if you don’t like what they’re saying.”
She added that it is not only important to vote, but also to make informed decisions.
McLaren said that to stay informed ahead of the election, it is best to go through both formal and informal channels. She urged awareness of media bias, particularly when engaging with outlets that may lean left or right politically. As candidates are now going door-to-door to their constituents, she said it can be a valuable opportunity to engage in conversations with candidates and learn more about what they stand for.
“If a leaflet comes through your door, or someone knocks, that’s your chance to speak to them and find out more,” she said.
“I’d suggest going to your local community council meetings—they discuss what’s happening in your area, and you’ll often meet elected members there,” added McLaren, encouraging students to engage with their communities. This, she said, can help them better understand the most pressing issues in their local area and how different politicians and parties approach them.
As the discussion came to a close and students gathered for group photographs with the Lord Provost, Jacqueline McLaren – wearing her gold chain over a light blue suit – inside the historic setting of Glasgow City Chambers, the visit offered students both an insight into Scotland’s political institutions and a reminder of their role within them. With the Scottish Parliament election 2026 approaching, the emphasis throughout remained on participation and the importance of using the vote.
There is still time for voters to look at the candidates in their constituency, consider their positions, and make a decision that reflects their convictions.
Voters will then have the opportunity to make their final decision before heading to the polling stations on 7 May.
Hi, I’m Julia Braun Raven, a second-year Journalism, Media & Creative Writing student. I’m co-Editor-in-Chief and Features Editor, and I love creating stories that matter to students, inspiring them, supporting what they’re passionate about, and celebrating their achievements. I’m especially interested in arts, culture, and student life, and I enjoy bringing energy, curiosity, and a love of storytelling to every piece I work on.
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