How do the electronic ballot boxes for the 2024 election work?

For the upcoming elections on June 2, the National Electoral Institute (INE) will install electronic voting machines at 71 special polling stations. Each of these stations will be equipped with three electronic ballot boxes, model 7.0, developed by INE.

Features and Operation of INE’s Electronic Voting Machines

The INE’s model 7.0 electronic ballot boxes come with several advanced features designed to ensure a secure and user-friendly voting experience:

• Touchscreen Display: 11.6-inch touchscreen for intuitive navigation.
• Thermal Printing: To print voting receipts.
• Lithium Polymer Batteries: Ensuring long battery life.
• Weight: Each unit weighs 7 kg.
• Modular Design: Comprising a voting module, a printing module, and a backup energy module.

Steps in the Voting Process

1. Voter Identification and Registration: Upon arriving at the polling station, voters’ identities are verified using their voting credentials. Once confirmed, the electronic ballot box is activated with a card, allowing the authorized voter to cast their vote.
2. Casting the Vote: Voters interact with the electronic ballot box through the touchscreen. The user-friendly interface ensures that even those unfamiliar with technology can easily navigate and make their selections. Voters can review their choices before final confirmation.
3. Vote Confirmation and Recording: Once confirmed, the vote is securely encrypted and recorded by the electronic ballot box, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of the ballot.

Deployment and Distribution

The INE will deploy these electronic voting machines in 71 special polling stations, with three units per station. These stations will be located in Mexico City and various municipalities in Nuevo León, such as Monterrey, Apodaca, San Pedro Garza García, San Nicolás de los Garza, and General Escobedo. Additionally, 23 consular offices will also be equipped with these machines to facilitate voting for Mexicans abroad.

Challenges and Criticisms

Despite the technological advancements, the implementation of electronic voting machines has faced criticism and challenges:

1. Security Concerns: The Network for the Defense of Digital Rights (R3D) highlighted vulnerabilities identified in a report by the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN). These include the use of unlicensed software and hardware nearing the end of its lifecycle, posing potential risks to the electoral process’s integrity.
2. Public Trust and Resistance: Transitioning from traditional paper-based voting to electronic systems has met with skepticism and resistance from some societal sectors. Building public trust requires significant efforts in educating voters about the reliability and security of electronic voting.
3. Addressing Vulnerabilities: The INE must address the identified vulnerabilities to ensure a secure and trustworthy electoral process. Continuous monitoring and upgrading of the electronic systems are essential to mitigate risks.

Conclusion

The use of electronic voting machines in Mexico’s 2024 elections represents a significant step towards modernizing the electoral process. While these advancements promise greater efficiency and security, addressing the associated challenges and building public trust remain crucial for successful implementation. By ensuring robust security measures and clear communication, the INE can enhance the voting experience and safeguard the democratic process.