Electronic voting : a brief study of remote internet voting in Estonia

Abstract

The voting system in many countries still relies on the paper ballot system which is cumbersome. The global declining number of voter turnout since the 1990s has been a major concern of all countries. The spoilt ballot is another factor affecting elections. The use of the electronic voting (e-voting) system could minimize or possibly end spoilt ballots. Many countries have started using different e-voting systems. Estonia is the only country to use an internet-based e-voting system nation-wide in all forms of elections.

This thesis aims to study the remote internet voting system used in Estonia, its impact on voter turnout, spoilt ballots and overall election. Various documents, reports and statistics were analyzed to prepare this thesis.

The thesis found out that e-voting has increased the convenience for the voters and has been able to make a little positive impact on the declining voter turnout. The number of spoilt ballots has been reduced to minimum. The election expenses have also reduced. However, the question on its integrity and reliability has been raised by political parties and experts. Pointing the risks involved in e-voting, the independent report by the team of the University of Michigan and Open rights group has recommended to discontinue it.