Finnish Government: Introduction of internet voting set as goal
In its strategy session on Monday 24 October, the Government of Finland outlined that electronic voting will be introduced in Finland as an alternative to the traditional voting in all elections.
The Ministry of Justice will launch a study to examine the possibilities to introduce internet voting in general elections in accordance with the Government's policy line. The Ministry will set up a working group to prepare the study. The working group will include representatives also from the Parliament.
"The Government wants to carry out a thorough study on the possibilities to introduce internet voting in general elections. There are both benefits and risks related to this question. As the centenary celebrations of Finland’s independence are approaching, it is, however, good to examine internet voting as one of the potential measures that could be used to promote democracy," says Minister of Justice and Employment Jari Lindström.
The study will examine the introduction of internet voting, the possible technical solutions for its implementation, its costs, and its impacts on the electoral system. The objective is to complete the study by the end of 2017.
Any detailed preparations for the introduction of internet voting in general elections have not been made earlier. General elections mean parliamentary elections, municipal elections, elections to the European Parliament and presidential elections as well as county elections that are being prepared. Internet voting could also be used in consultative referenda.
Internet voting supports the Government’s key project that aims to digitalise all public services.
Inquiries: Johanna Suurpää, Director, tel. +358 2951 50534, and Arto Jääskeläinen, Director of Electoral Administration, tel. +358 2951 50128, email: [email protected]