ELECTIONS WITH BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY: CAN ELECTRONIC VOTING PUT AN END TO THE DEBATES IN TÜRKİYE?

Elections in Turkey have a long-standing tradition, with citizens going to the polls being considered a hallmark of democratic participation. However, issues related to security, transparency and legitimacy have eroded public trust in the electoral process, especially following events such as the use of unstamped ballots in the 2017 Constitutional Referendum and the annulment of the 2019 Istanbul elections. These concerns are not unique to Turkey; similar issues exist globally. Around the world, digital solutions are being explored to address these problems. For instance, countries like Estonia, Switzerland and South Korea have integrated blockchain technology into their election processes. In countries such as the United States and Canada, blockchain-based projects have been developed to facilitate voting for citizens living abroad. The transparent, secure and decentralized structure offered by blockchain holds great potential in preventing vote manipulation and ensuring the reliability of election processes. In Turkey, although SECSIS namely Election Information System digitally manages voter registrations and address information, it does not play a direct role in the voting process. It is important to note the distinction between e-elections and e-voting; e-elections encompass the entire process, while e-voting only involves the act of casting votes. The widespread adoption and acceptance of electronic signatures (e-signatures) also took time, with pilot programs addressing many of the concerns. Similarly, blockchain-supported electronic voting systems have not yet been implemented in Turkey, but it is recommended that this technology be integrated, tested and piloted. By strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing cybersecurity measures and increasing public acceptance, it is believed that blockchain technology could contribute to election security and transparency in Turkey.