Internetäänestys

Internetäänestys, also known as online voting or e-voting, refers to the casting and tabulation of votes using the internet. This technology has the potential to make voting more accessible and convenient for citizens, particularly those who may face difficulties in reaching physical polling stations. It can also speed up the vote counting process.

The concept of internetäänestys encompasses various forms, including remote online voting from personal devices and in-person voting at dedicated internet kiosks. Proponents highlight its ability to increase voter turnout, reduce costs associated with traditional elections, and offer greater flexibility. Several countries and regions have experimented with or implemented forms of internetäänestys for various types of elections, from local referendums to national polls.

However, internetäänestys also faces significant challenges and concerns. Security is a primary worry, with potential risks of hacking, malware, and denial-of-service attacks that could compromise the integrity of the election. Ensuring the anonymity and secrecy of the ballot is another critical issue. Verifiability, the ability for voters and observers to confirm that votes are cast as intended and counted accurately, is also a complex technical hurdle. Public trust and the perceived fairness of the electoral process are paramount, and any perceived vulnerabilities in internetäänestys could erode this trust. Ongoing research and development focus on addressing these security and verifiability challenges to make online voting a more viable option.