Etävaali

Etävaali, a Finnish term, refers to remote voting or absentee voting. It is a method that allows eligible voters to cast their ballots without needing to be physically present at their designated polling station on election day. This can be achieved through various means, primarily by voting in advance at a designated polling station prior to election day or by mail.

The primary purpose of etävaali is to increase voter turnout by providing greater flexibility and accessibility for citizens. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who may be traveling, have work commitments, are ill, or have other reasons that would prevent them from voting on the actual election day. Finland has a well-established system for advance voting, which is a significant component of its etävaali implementation.

In Finland, advance polling stations are typically open for a week leading up to election day, offering numerous locations across the country and even abroad. Voters can cast their ballots at any of these advance polling stations, regardless of their registered place of residence. Mail-in voting, while less common for general elections in Finland compared to advance polling, is also a form of etävaali and may be available in specific circumstances or for certain types of elections. The system is designed to maintain the security and integrity of the vote while accommodating the needs of a diverse electorate.