Internet voting for open government: what, why, and how to introduce it in the European Union

Abstract

In recent decades, the European Union (EU) has introduced multiple elements of transparency, participation, and accountability in its decision-making processes. Yet, these can always be enhanced by applying the open government approach that puts a special emphasis on innovative and digital technologies. One of such technologies is internet voting (i-voting), which can empower people with more direct participation in policy making. This paper refers to the concepts and models of open government and i-voting, provides examples, outlines preconditions, discusses risks, and offers recommendations for introducing i-voting. It is intended as an inspirational paper for advancing open government and i-voting at the EU level.