What technologies are used throughout our elections process?

The election process in modern democracies has evolved significantly with the adoption of various technologies aimed at enhancing efficiency, security, transparency, and accessibility. These technologies span across different stages of the election cycle, from voter registration to the final tallying of results. For instance, voter registration systems have largely shifted from paper-based systems to digital platforms that allow eligible voters to register online or in-person. These digital systems often involve large databases that store voter information securely, allowing for easier management of voter rolls, elimination of duplicates, and verification of eligibility. Some countries have integrated biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, to ensure that each individual is registered only once, thereby reducing the risk of voter fraud.

Electronic voting machines (EVMs) are another cornerstone of election technology, designed to streamline the actual voting process. There are different types of EVMs, including Direct Recording Electronic (DRE) machines that allow voters to cast their votes using touchscreens or keypads, with votes being directly stored in the machine’s memory. This reduces the chances of human error that can occur with manual vote counting. In addition to DRE machines, there are Ballot Marking Devices (BMDs) which enable voters to electronically select their choices before printing a paper ballot that is scanned for counting. These systems offer the advantage of producing a paper trail, which is essential for auditing purposes. Similarly, optical scanners are employed in some systems, allowing voters to fill out paper ballots that are later scanned electronically, thus combining the benefits of a physical ballot with the speed and accuracy of digital counting systems.

Biometric identification systems have also become more common, especially in countries where voter fraud has historically been an issue. By using biometric data like fingerprints, iris scans, or facial recognition, election officials can ensure that voters are who they claim to be and that no one is voting more than once. These systems, often paired with voter authentication tools like voter ID cards or two-factor authentication via SMS, are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the election process. Blockchain technology has also made its way into the conversation around elections, particularly in secure voting and verification. Blockchain offers a decentralized, tamper-proof ledger where every vote is securely recorded, thus reducing the possibility of manipulation or fraud. Estonia is one example of a country that has experimented with blockchain for online voting, especially for absentee and remote voters.

Election management software is another critical element of modern elections, offering an efficient way for officials to organize and conduct the voting process. These platforms manage various administrative tasks such as creating ballots, managing voter rolls, tracking absentee ballots, assigning polling stations, and tallying results. By automating these tasks, election management software reduces errors and increases the overall efficiency of elections. Meanwhile, some regions are exploring remote and online voting systems, particularly for voters who are overseas or unable to visit polling stations. While still in its infancy, this area of technology shows promise, with encryption and blockchain platforms ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of votes cast online.

After the election, technology continues to play a crucial role in post-election audits and verifications. Automated audit tools compare results from electronic voting systems with physical paper backups to ensure the accuracy of reported outcomes. Methods like risk-limiting audits (RLAs) use statistical techniques to verify election results, flagging any discrepancies for further investigation. Vote tabulation itself is frequently automated, especially when using electronic voting machines or optical scanners. This allows for the quick aggregation of vote totals, which are then transmitted to central counting centers. In some elections, results are even made available in real-time through public platforms, offering citizens transparency and insight into the election process as it unfolds.

In the face of increasing cybersecurity threats, election security has become paramount. Modern elections rely on advanced encryption methods, network monitoring tools, and robust cybersecurity frameworks to protect voter data, voting systems, and election results from interference, whether from hackers, malicious actors, or foreign entities. Governments and election bodies collaborate with cybersecurity experts to ensure that election infrastructure is fortified against attacks, as election systems are attractive targets for those wishing to disrupt or manipulate democratic processes. Transparency is further supported by open data platforms, where governments make election data publicly accessible, often through open-source software, so that third parties can independently verify the results. These platforms ensure that the election process remains open and trustworthy to all stakeholders.

Finally, assistive voting technologies have made voting more accessible to individuals with disabilities. Tools like audio ballots, large-print displays, and devices designed for people with mobility impairments, such as sip-and-puff systems, ensure that voters with physical limitations can participate in elections independently. As these technologies evolve, the goal is not only to streamline and secure the election process but also to ensure that every citizen has the ability to cast their vote easily and confidently. While the adoption of technology in elections provides many benefits, such as faster vote counts and increased accuracy, it also introduces new challenges, particularly in terms of security and ensuring equal access for all voters. Governments must strike a balance between harnessing these innovations and safeguarding the democratic process against both technological vulnerabilities and inequalities in access.