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Consultation and Evaluation Practices in the Implementation of Internet Voting in Canada and Europe

Conclusion

This report has examined the consultation practices and evaluation procedures used in a number of European and Canadian jurisdictions where Internet voting has been implemented, or is being considered. In general, our recommendations indicate that we find considerable room for expansion in both of these areas. Consultations have rarely included the general public at large, and even when specialized groups have been involved, the number and depth of these discussions have often been limited. Evaluations have at times been systematic, but at other times informal and impressionistic. We believe that a variety of quantitative and qualitative research techniques should be applied to generate knowledge and examine public opinion when Internet voting is being considered, and should certainly be conducted when such trials are undertaken. It is only with an extended knowledge base that future governments can make informed decisions about Internet-based electoral reform.