| Generally, the Swiss concept of democracy is based on the maxim that citizens can observe and influence any political process (notwithstanding that lobby groups are typically more effective). So in most municipalities, anyone (!) can be present during the vote collection and counting procedures. The right is rarely used, but is the foundation of (1) trusting and (2) accepting the voting outcome. This leads to a lot of stability and trust, even if you may not agree with the result of the vote. With eVoting, we are doing away with that fundamental right and a process understandable to every single voter. Even given Universal Verifiability, the number of people understanding the concept (not even thinking about the implementation) is probably fewer than does understanding quantum gravity. Just the rumors of things having run afoul will be able to substantially destabilise the trust in democracy and thus the country. I do not think we should follow that slippery slope, especially as the major claims that started the eVoting debate have been refuted: - eVoting does not add increase the voter turnout; charging 6 francs for not voting however increases it by 10% - eVoting is not cheaper; the production and mailing of the required tamper-proof materials is more expensive than before - eVoting is not simpler; in fact, the process includes many steps which look tedious and unnecessary |