Stimmzettel

A Stimmzettel is the physical ballot paper used by voters to record their choices in a political election or referendum. It is designed to be used in a secret ballot, with voters marking their selections in a way that reveals no information about their identity or preferences.

The term Stimmzettel is common in German-language contexts and can be used interchangeably with Wahlzettel in many situations. It is employed across German-speaking countries, including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, though the exact format and rules vary by jurisdiction. Ballots may be used for parliamentary elections, local councils, referendums, or other votes, and elections can involve single-vote contests or multiple contests on the same ballot.

Design and marking methods differ by country and election type. Voters typically indicate their choice by making a mark on or next to a candidate or party name, sometimes by filling in an oval or box. In some systems, voters may cast preference votes, order candidates, or mark multiple selections for party lists. Instructions on the ballot specify valid and invalid markings, and care is taken to ensure that the ballot can be counted accurately.

After voting, Stimmzettel are collected and counted according to the rules of the jurisdiction. Ballots may be counted by hand or with machines, and invalid or spoiled ballots are excluded from the tally. Postal ballots often require additional steps, such as sealing in envelopes and verifying voter eligibility, before the Stimmzettel can be processed.

Historically, the Stimmzettel is part of the broader development of the secret ballot, a standard feature in modern democracies aimed at protecting voters and ensuring free expression.