THE IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE ELECTORAL PROCESS IN PAKISTAN: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

This article seeks to assess the impact of technology in the electoral process in Pakistan with a view of evaluating the chances of technology as well as the challenges it poses. In the introduction, the author gives a brief background of the elections in Pakistan and the importance of innovation in the electoral process. It argues that, although technology has the potential of improving the electoral processes in Pakistan, its introduction should be done with the understanding of the challenges that exist within the Pakistani society and politics. A number of issues have been discussed under the opportunities of technology in elections including the biometric voter registration, electronic voting machines, and social media in voter education and campaigns. These innovations are aimed at enhancing the identification of the voters, management of elections, and increasing the transparency of the electoral process with a view of increasing confidence in the electoral process. But the paper also identifies potential challenges of these technologies such as cybercrimes, the issue of the digital divide and fake news, which if not well managed may tamper with the credibility of elections. To this end, the paper compares the previous experiences of successful and unsuccessful technology integration in Pakistani elections and identifies the lessons to be learnt. Some of the recommendations that can help in the effective use of technology include; improving on the security of technology, increasing awareness on technology and ensuring that there are laws that regulate the use of technology in elections. The conclusion restates the importance of adopting technology while putting in place measures that will help to manage the negative impacts while supporting free and fair elections in Pakistan’s democracy.

Keywords: Technology, Elections, Opportunities, Transparency, EVMs, Cyber Security