The Usage of Electronic Voting Machines Worldwide: An Analysis of Patterns of Adoption and Discontinuation

Abstract

This study examines the global patterns in the adoption and discontinuation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in electoral processes. It seeks to understand the motivations behind the adoption of EVMs by some countries and the reasons to abandon them. This study aims to examine the key factors influencing the decision to adopt EVM technology across different electoral systems and to investigate the reasons and challenges leading countries to discontinue the use of electronic voting machines. Guided by Democratic Theory which emphasizes participation, representation, accountability and legitimacy as the core principles of electoral democracy, the research explores how political systems either include or reject technological innovations in voting. Employing a qualitative approach, the study identifies key political, institutional and technological factors influencing the trajectory of EVM usage worldwide. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how technology interacts with democratic governance and the conditions under which EVMs enhance or undermine electoral integrity.