Wahlkabine

Wahlkabine is the German term for a voting booth, a private space at polling stations where voters mark their ballots in secret. Its purpose is to ensure the anonymity of the ballot and protect voters from pressure or observation during the voting process.

A typical Wahlkabine consists of a small enclosure with a privacy screen or curtain, a work surface and seating, and a receptacle for the ballot papers. The design is intended to prevent others from seeing how the voter marks the ballot, while providing enough space for a comfortable stance or seating. In many systems, voters receive a ballot paper, go into the booth, mark their selections, fold the ballot, and deposit it into a ballot box. Some booths include tactile or high-contrast features to assist voters with visual impairments.

Legal and procedural aspects: The use of Wahlkabinen is required or standard in many jurisdictions to guarantee the secrecy of the vote. Voters may request assistance from election staff or a trusted person if they cannot vote unaided; in such cases, the helper is not aware of the voter's choices, and the act is carried out to preserve secrecy.

Accessibility: Modern election guidelines emphasize accessibility, with adjustable height, wider interiors, and barrier-free access to accommodate voters with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or other aids.

History: The concept emerged with the adoption of secret ballots in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and became standard in many democracies to protect the independence of voters.