äänestyslautakuntas

Äänestyslautakunta, or the polling committee, is a temporary body established in Finland to administer a specific polling station during an election. Members of the polling committee are typically appointed by the municipal election board. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the voting process at their assigned polling station is conducted correctly and in accordance with electoral laws.

The duties of an äänestyslautakunta are multifaceted. They include opening the polling station on time, verifying the identity of voters against the electoral roll, issuing ballot papers, and providing instructions to voters if necessary. They also ensure the secrecy of the ballot is maintained and handle any procedural issues or disputes that may arise during the voting period. After the polls close, the äänestyslautakunta is responsible for counting the votes cast at their station and compiling the results. This count is typically done by hand in the presence of election observers and party representatives.

The composition of an äänestyslautakunta usually consists of a chairperson and several ordinary members. The exact number can vary depending on the size and expected voter turnout of the polling district. The chairperson leads the committee's work and is accountable for the overall conduct of the polling station. Members of the äänestyslautakunta are expected to be impartial and to perform their duties diligently to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. Their work is crucial for the smooth and fair execution of elections at the local level.