Political scientist Ihor Tyrovych, speaking on the Klochok Time channel, discusses the idea of introducing electronic voting for elections and referendums in Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky and Davyd Arakhamia support the feasibility of this move, especially for Ukrainians abroad. However, this initiative faces significant constitutional limitations, particularly regarding the requirements of secret and equal voting guaranteed by Article 71 of the Ukrainian Constitution.
Tyrovych highlights the technical, legal, and social challenges of electronic voting. Among the key problems are the inability to ensure vote secrecy, unequal access to technology, and serious risks during martial law, when the incumbent government might gain an unfair advantage. The legitimacy of such elections and potential for outside interference are also of major concern.
The expert notes doubts about proper vote verification and risks to free expression of will due to possible coercion or bribery. Amending the Constitution is extremely difficult under martial law, and lifting it calls into question the need for online voting. Alternatives discussed include extending the voting period so that citizens abroad can participate.
Tyrovych concludes that for now, the idea of electronic voting is more a means of postponing the issue of urgent elections, mainly to satisfy Western partners. Existing risks and legal barriers make its implementation unrealistic under martial law and current legislation.
