Elections and referendums could now be held over the Internet using blockchain technology. A number of companies have already developed the relevant software. The new systems promise more flexibility and improved security, as they would make rigged elections and cyberattacks virtually impossible. What kind of impact could blockchain have on elections held in fragile contexts and what obstacles and problems should we be looking out for? Thomas Imboden, Digital Product Manager at the Swiss Red Cross (SRC), tells us what he thinks.

What would a Blockchain election look like?

The entire election process would be digitalized. A central authority, the federal bodies for example, would send a token (electronic key) via a channel such as e-mail or text. This token would be sent to every eligible voter and, ideally, would be linked to a digital identity. The token would be based on a closed blockchain controlled by public institutions and allow one single vote from each individual identity. Every election candidate would have their own digital account for the election, where the votes cast could be saved and tracked.

Could you tell us a bit more about this digital identity?

The connection to a digital identity provides additional security. It means that the token would only be valid if persons identify themselves, ensuring that the voter is definitely the person linked to the token. Swiss Post already uses a digital identity system called Swiss ID, while SBB has plans to implement one.

An election needs to fulfill a number of requirements in order to be fair. For example access to polling stations and of course vote counting. What areas could be improved by blockchain?

Counting votes using blockchain has an error rate of almost zero. Access to polling stations would also become an irrelevant issue, as eligible voters would be able to vote from home, work or hospital. It could also save considerable costs. However, the entire issue of unfairly distributed campaign funds and influence exerted via social media would continue to be a problem with this technology. Ultimately we are all still individual people and we will make up our own minds.

What new problems and challenges do blockchain elections present?

Security remains a key issue. Of course, everybody tries to protect their digital identity but even here, force and threats could unfortunately still lead to elections being rigged, although it would be to a much lesser extent and a lot more difficult. The encryption technology available today certainly provides enough security, but new generations of computers coming out could make that a problem very quickly by potentially undermining the anonymity associated with past elections. Another crucial aspect would definitely be the neutral authority providing the technology. It could cause difficulties if the technology itself is provided by a corrupt system, as this could potentially allow the election to be rigged.

Blockchain elections require an Internet connection. Couldn’t that be a problem, especially in poor countries?

Of course it’s a problem. But even back in 2016, approximately 47% of the world’s population had access to the Internet, and that figure is increasing every year. Neutral countries would need to make improvements in this area, for instance by providing satellite Internet access. This would not only make it possible to hold the election, but would also promote democracy and freedom of expression. Of course, there is still a long way to go before isolated communities become familiar with the technology. But 100% coverage isn’t actually necessary for fair elections. The neutral authority could ultimately provide polling stations with an Internet connection and a computer, for example.

Blockchain technology is complex and difficult to understand. Isn’t it a critical problem if elections are held using technology that people don’t understand?

Only a very small number of people understand how particular pieces of software work and they still use their cell phones and computers every day. Generally, it isn’t important for people to understand the technology, but rather that people become familiar with it, recognize the purpose behind it and see the positive opportunities it affords. Raising awareness is the right approach. If blockchain was introduced by a recognized, neutral country such as Switzerland, it would generally build people’s confidence in the technology more quickly.

Blockchain could increase transparency and fairness, especially in authoritarian countries that hold sham elections. However, the leaders of these countries will be opposed to new systems like this. Are there approaches for resolving this kind of issue?

Yes, having a neutral country provide blockchain would definitely help, as I’ve mentioned. Beyond that, I’m no expert in this field but I believe that existing options such as election monitoring, raising public awareness and, if necessary, imposing sanctions would be the right approach in future.

How would blockchain elections change the role of election observers?

The entire election monitoring process would begin earlier, as the election would need to be observed from the point at which the technology is provided. Furthermore, it must be ensured there and then that people are being instructed correctly.

Could blockchain elections help to restore public trust in democracy and reduce tensions?

I think it absolutely could. The technology would have to be introduced gently and with excellent media coverage. People need to be aware that this technology is fair and neutral. If this awareness is raised, it could also reduce tensions and violence.

What do these developments mean for the Swiss Red Cross? Are you preparing for these changes?

We are very interested in blockchain technology. The possibilities it affords for transparency and automation are an important issue for us, but the Red Cross distances itself from any political disputes. Neutrality is one of the seven principles of the Red Cross and an essential reason why we are trusted by people from the most disparate backgrounds. It is also the reason we are able to help suffering people in places that are inaccessible to other aid organizations. However, given our humanitarian role, we are interested in supporting developments that also give disadvantaged communities a voice and allow them to exercise their rights.

A lot of things that are technically feasible simply do not catch on. What do you think the future holds for blockchain elections? Is blockchain just a fad or will it facilitate the elections of the future? 

I believe that blockchain technology has potential for the future and will lead to improvements and new positive opportunities for many sectors. Hopefully, blockchain will also help to increase transparency and fairness in elections and referendums.