In 2025, the world is witnessing an intense year for
democracy. According to the IFES Election Guide, 84
national elections (executive or legislative) and 9
referendums are scheduled in over 60 countries, marking
a decisive year for the political future of millions of citizens.
But amid this significant volume of democratic processes,
one key question arises: How is technology shaping
elections around the world?
While many countries still rely on traditional paper ballots, a
growing number are adopting electronic solutions to
increase efficiency, security, and speed in vote counting.
Countries like Brazil, India, Estonia and Belgium already
use digital technology on a national scale to conduct their
elections
These models vary from electronic voting machines with
paper trails (VVPAT) to fully online voting systems, as seen
in Estonia—a global benchmark in e-voting.
In Latin America, the adoption of electoral technology is
uneven. Here is an overview of three key countries in 2025:
🇧🇷 Brazil
A pioneer in the use of electronic voting machines since
1996, Brazil conducts all national elections digitally. The
system is auditable, extensively tested, and considered a
global reference, despite ongoing political debates about
its security.
🇻🇪 Venezuela
Venezuela has operated a fully automated voting system
since 2004, using touchscreen machines, voter biometrics,
and printed vote receipts (VVPAT). Despite its technical
sophistication, the system has faced skepticism due to
governance and transparency concerns.
🇦🇷 Argentina
Still primarily uses paper ballots in national elections.
However, the electronic single ballot (BUE) has been
piloted in provinces like Salta and in Buenos Aires City. In
2025, a reform was passed to expand the use of electronic
voting at the national level, but its full implementation
remains uncertain.
🇵🇾 Paraguay
Paraguay is experimenting with electronic voting using
voting machines, through equipment rental.
Modernizing the voting process brings clear benefits:
faster results, reduced human error, and improved
transparency. However, it also requires:
Strong technical standards and independent audits;
Voter education on the systems used;
Accessibility and equity in the digital process;
Institutional trust to counter manipulation and
disinformation.
The elections of 2025 reveal a world in democratic motion.
While some nations maintain traditional methods, others
are investing in technology to modernize and strengthen
their electoral systems. Latin America, with its diversity and
challenges, is moving forward unevenly—featuring
standout cases like Brazil and experimental efforts like
those in Argentina.
The key to the future lies not only in adopting technology,
but in ensuring its ethical, transparent, and inclusive
implementation, upholding the integrity of the vote and reinforcing democratic institutions.
