BBC News By David Shanks "It will be a minute that changes my life - I have the right to vote". For Syrians such Ahmad Alkhaled, the forthcoming Scottish election will be the first national vote where refugees will be able to take part. For many, it will be the first time participating in a free and fair electoral process. Ahmad, 24, arrived in Aberdeenshire last year as he and many relatives fled the conflict at home. He is now looking forward to going to a polling station. There are about 20,000 refugees in Scotland, and work is ongoing to support those heading to the ballot box.