Valgboks

Valgboks is the container used to collect ballots during elections. It is designed to secure the privacy of voters and the integrity of the voting process. Most valgboks are lockable and tamper-evident; they often feature a ballot slot on the top and may be made of metal, hard plastic, or wood. Many models use serial-number seals and require authorization to open. Some boxes include a transparent window or lid to allow observers to verify that a box contains ballots without exposing how individuals voted.

Inside, ballots are removed in a controlled procedure after polls close, counted, and the results recorded. To prevent ballot stuffing and ensure traceability, election authorities maintain custody of the boxes, log seal numbers, and perform opening or counting in the presence of observers or election staff.

Common variants include stationary ballot boxes at polling stations, portable boxes used during transport to counting centers, and drop boxes or ballot boxes installed at public locations for out-of-hours deposit of ballots. In some systems, ballots may be stored in more than one box or in separate containers for administrative purposes.

Historically, the use of ballot boxes developed alongside the adoption of the secret ballot in many countries during the 19th and early 20th centuries, evolving to modern standards of security and transparency. See also: ballot, secret ballot, election security, vote counting.