"Alexey Oblizov speaks about the chance of internet-based voting, asserting it as a means to exercise his civic responsibility"
The Republic of Komi, a federal subject of Russia, is set to make history by introducing remote electronic voting (REV) in the upcoming elections scheduled for September 12, 13, and 14, 2025. This marks a significant step towards modernising the electoral process in the region.
Registration for participation in distance electronic voting (DRE) is now open and available on the "Gosuslugi" portal since July 28. To take part in remote voting, residents of Komi will need an internet connection, a device to access it (mobile phone, computer, or tablet), and a confirmed account on the Gosuslugi portal. Until September 8, each voter can decide how they want to exercise their voting rights - traditionally at the polling station or remotely via the internet.
The DRE system in Komi is based on a complex cryptographic system that ensures the secrecy of voting and prevents fraud. Any attempt to interfere with the data stored in the system will result in the appearance of artifacts that cannot be hidden. This added layer of security is monitored by election commissions and public observers, with a unique real-time monitoring system in place, allowing observers to record everything happening in the DRE with second-by-second accuracy.
Voting via the DRE system offers convenience and flexibility. Voters who submit an application to participate in REV can cast their vote at any convenient time, even at night. This system allows avoiding queues at polling stations and provides the opportunity to make a more considered choice by studying the candidates' programs in a calm home environment.
Once a voter has cast their ballot, they will receive confirmation: "You have voted. Thank you for participating in remote electronic voting." Each voter can also monitor the voting process on the DRE portal and verify that their ballot is securely stored in the blockchain.
The DRE system is particularly relevant for those who will be harvesting crops, going to the forest for berries and mushrooms, on vacation, or living outside the Republic while maintaining their registration within its territory. It solves the problem of participating in elections for those who cannot physically be present at their polling station, such as students, those working in shifts, people with disabilities, and those temporarily residing in other regions.
For precise and current information about remote electronic voting in Komi for 2025, it is recommended to consult official sources such as the Central Election Commission of the Russian Federation or the Republic of Komi's regional electoral commission websites, or recent government publications.
- Technology and politics intersect in the Republic of Komi, as they prepare to implement policy-and-legislation surrounding remote electronic voting (REV) in their upcoming elections.
- The general news about electronic voting in Komi highlights the impact of technology on the electoral process, offering convenience and flexibility to a wide range of voters, including those who are out of town, working shifts, or have disabilities.
