Postiäänestys

Postiäänestys, also known as postal voting or absentee voting in some jurisdictions, is a method of casting a ballot in an election where a voter receives their ballot by mail and returns it to election officials via mail. This system allows individuals to participate in elections without needing to be present at a physical polling station on election day.

The process typically begins with a voter requesting an absentee ballot. This request can often be made online, by mail, or in person. Once the request is approved, the ballot is mailed to the voter's registered address. The voter then fills out the ballot in the privacy of their home and returns it to the designated election office by a specified deadline. Return methods usually include mail, but some areas may allow for drop-off at secure locations.

Postiäänestys is often utilized by voters who will be out of town on election day, have mobility issues, or prefer the convenience of voting from home. Its availability and specific regulations vary significantly by country and even by region within a country. In some places, it is a standard option for all registered voters, while in others, voters must provide a valid reason for requesting an absentee ballot. The integrity of postal voting systems is often a subject of public discussion, with measures in place to ensure secure handling and accurate counting of ballots.