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Kazakhstan is not yet ready to introduce electronic voting, according to the country's Central Election Commission (CEC). The commission detailed its position in response to an official inquiry, highlighting both the global adoption of such technologies and the significant risks involved.

Global Adoption and Risks

Currently, electronic voting systems are utilized in approximately 40 out of 193 countries worldwide. However, the CEC noted that in many of these nations, the technology is implemented only in specific regions or as part of pilot projects. A thorough assessment of potential risks is crucial before any such system can be introduced.

International Experiences and Lessons

Kazakhstan is actively studying international practices regarding electronic voting, including Estonia's model, which combines online voting with traditional methods. Despite Estonia being a global leader in internet voting since 2005, allowing citizens to cast ballots online using electronic IDs, the CEC pointed out that the system remains a subject of international debate. In 2023, over half of the votes in Estonia's parliamentary elections were cast online.

During a 2023 international conference, an expert from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), David Duenas-Sid, stated that there is still no conclusive evidence proving that internet voting increases voter turnout or reduces election costs. The OSCE ODIHR is an organization focused on election observation, promoting human rights, the rule of law, and democratic principles.

Concerns and Rejections

The global landscape also shows instances where countries have abandoned electronic voting. Germany's Constitutional Court, for example, ruled against the use of electronic voting machines in 2009, citing concerns about ensuring the principles of publicity and transparency in elections.

Similarly, the Netherlands and Ireland reverted to paper ballots after trials of electronic systems due to security and trust issues. The CEC emphasized the need for continued research into international experiences and a careful evaluation of potential risks before considering the introduction of alternative voting methods in Kazakhstan.

International practices for electronic voting vary, encompassing internet voting, electronic machines at polling stations, and automated ballot counting. Nevertheless, paper ballots remain the standard in many countries, with electronic technologies often used only partially or in pilot phases in specific regions or elections, as seen in Belgium, the USA, and Canada.

The CEC reiterated its commitment to thoroughly researching international practices and assessing potential risks before considering the implementation of any new voting technologies.

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