Participación de Consejera Claudia Vargas | Audiencia Pública en Jalisco Reforma Electoral 28nov25

The Impact of Technology on Electoral Processes

Introduction to Technological Integration in Elections

• The everyday use of information and communication technologies is undeniable, significantly influencing globalization and market expansion.

• The electoral process is undergoing technological changes, with citizen participation shifting from traditional media to digital platforms.

Global Examples of Electronic Voting

• Countries like Belgium, Estonia, Spain, France, Italy, Russia, Brazil, the United States, and Venezuela have implemented electronic voting systems partially or fully.

• Mexico's electoral law has allowed for automatic voting machines since 1911; Coahuila has used electronic urns since 2005.

Implementation in Mexican States

• Jalisco began implementing electronic voting systems in 2006; first used in Tuxcueca during local elections in 2009.

• By 2012, the system was expanded to two uninominal electoral districts and 43 municipalities. Public perception surveys indicate a preference for electronic voting due to its simplicity and reliability.

Advantages of Electronic Voting Systems

• Over 400 democratic exercises have utilized fourth-generation electronic urns in various contexts including constitutional elections and citizen consultations.

• Studies by INE suggest that internet-based voting for Mexicans abroad is more efficient than traditional methods; citizens prefer this option based on recent data.

Benefits and Legal Validation of Electronic Voting

• Electronic voting reduces costs associated with materials and training while speeding up results processing and decreasing errors leading to fewer disputes over election outcomes.

• Environmental benefits include reduced paper usage as documentation can be minimized through technology adoption; legal validation from judicial bodies supports the use of these systems as compliant with electoral principles.

Challenges Ahead for Electronic Voting Adoption

• Transitioning to an electronic voting system requires clear legal frameworks and overcoming obstacles that hinder technology implementation in elections. Socializing technology as a reliable tool is essential for public acceptance.

• Emphasizing that innovations like electronic voting are part of broader technological advancements that should strengthen local electoral bodies ensures effective democracy building at all levels.