Technology In Elections: Unveiling The Potential And Challenges Of Elections With Evms In Pakistan

Abstract

The emergence of technology has transformed every aspect of the contemporary world, and the electoral landscape is also benefiting from this transformation. Although new technologies are meant to make the electoral process more transparent and efficient, there are several challenges posed by this technological advancement, which may also adversely affect the results of elections. This research has been carried out to analyze the potential and challenges linked with Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) and the technological impact of EVM. Quantitative research has been conducted using a case study research design focusing on Pakistan. Special attention has been given to the use of EVM in India and Brazil to know the technological impact of the adoption of EVM in Pakistan. An expert sampling method has been used to get the insights and opinions of electoral and technological experts through a survey. The findings of this research highlight the significance of EVM in ensuring the efficiency of the electoral process, including fast results and an error-free polling process. Two distinct factors have been fetched using Factor Analysis concerning security apprehensions of EVM, such as hacking and manipulation issues, as challenges in the implementation of EVM. Contrary to this, special measures have been identified, like public awareness of technology and capacity building of human and infrastructure resources to achieve uninterrupted implementation of EVM. The findings further underscore the technological advancement with a need for robust security measures, easy-to-use interfaces of EVM, and regular security and audit enhancement of EVM machines to successfully implement EVM. The research promotes an understanding of the abilities of EVMs to promote legitimate elections. It guides lawmakers and the Election Commission of Pakistan on properly utilizing this technology. The paper claims that the intentional adoption and skillful oversight of EVMs can significantly enhance the reliability and efficiency of electoral processes, hence strengthening democracy.