Elections In The Digital Age: A Study Of Evms' Social Impact In Pakistan

Abstract

The objective of this research was to evaluate the potential and challenges of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) in the context of societal implications, concentrating on Pakistan as a case study. The role of socio-political context, social attitudes, and trust has been explored to know how these factors affect the acceptability and efficacy of EVM in a developing democracy like Pakistan. A quantitative case study research design has been used for this research. Some important factors have been identified using factor analysis, such as public trust, civic part[1]icipation, digital divide, which have a great influence on the success or failure of EVM. The result also emphasizes a crucial aspect of aligning technological development in the electoral arena with the social environment, showing that effective implementation of EVM not only requires know-how of technology but also a grasp of the social environment is essential. This research also provides a policy guideline for the formation of a comprehensive strategy considering socio-cultural dynamics and capabilities of voters to deal with the latest technology and training them through mass media awareness programs to adopt EVM in Pakistan. The study findings also provide a roadmap for the Election Commission of Pakistan and legislatures for a smooth acceptance of EVM by making this adoption in line with the requirements and expectations of society.