Remote Electronic voting (e-vote) and the covid-19 pandemic: a public policy proposal

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

We hope to contribute to the Brazilian Political Science debate with a study on the viability of alternative voting methods in addressing the dual challenges of social isolation and low voter turnout. What are the benefits, prerequisites, and obstacles for the inclusion of the remote electronic voting format (e-vote) in Brazil?

Materials and methods:

After a thorough literature review on remote and electronic voting, we devised an inventory of e-voting implementation and the characteristics of the countries and locations that have adopted this model, analyzing the correlation between e-voting and electoral participation. Then, through a PEST/SWOT analysis, we evaluated the feasibility of adopting this voting system in Brazil. The PEST analysis examines shifts in the Political (P), Economic (E), Social (S) and Technological (T) landscapes within a specific context that may require changes or innovations. The SWOT analysis lists the Strengths (Strength), Weaknesses (Weaknesses), Opportunities (Opportunities), and Threats (Threats) associated with the prospective implementation of a given public policy. Findings: The PEST/SWOT analysis revealed mixed results on feasibility and safety. The introduction of internet-based remote voting entails both advantages and disadvantages. Brazil has the necessary technology to take this leap and Brazilian citizens tend to trust existing electronic mechanisms (voting machines). Nonetheless, social and generational factors remain the major impediments to the implementation of the e-vote format. Discussion: Supporters of e-vote find cause for optimism in the increased use of electronic government mechanisms, the adoption of electronic ballot boxes, and the broadening of internet access to excluded populations. We propose starting with pilot projects in certain locations in Brazil, a strategy that has been used in other countries (Estonia being a paradigmatic example), for the gradual implementation of these mechanisms.

Keywords
political participation; electronic voting; e-vote; voter abstention; COVID-19