THE ABILITY TO VOTE FOR EVERYONE? ALTERNATIVE VOTING METHODS AS INSTRUMENTS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRINCIPLE OF UNIVERSALITY OF ELECTIONS IN THE POLISH ELECTORAL SYSTEM
THE ABILITY TO VOTE FOR EVERYONE? ALTERNATIVE VOTING METHODS AS INSTRUMENTS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PRINCIPLE OF UNIVERSALITY OF ELECTIONS IN THE POLISH ELECTORAL SYSTEM

Summary/Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic showed what an important a role alternative voting methods play inthe electoral system. Their availability makes it possible to participate in elections, in emergencysituations, thus serving the fulfilment of the universality of elections. Their absence, on the otherhand, prevents the fulfilment of the principle of universality of elections to its full extent. Thisproves the close relationship between the principle of universality of elections and alternativevoting methods. The article presents the indicated issue in relation to the Polish constitutionalpractice. The purpose of the article is to decide whether the alternative voting methods presentin the Polish electoral system fulfil their function. The presentation begins with an explanationof the meaning of the principle of universality of elections. Then a legal analysis is made of thetwo alternative voting methods available in the Polish system: postal voting and proxy voting.The analysis carried out in the work aims to show that the alternative voting methods present inthe Polish electoral system do not ensure effective implementation of the principle of universalityof elections. Consequently, it is necessary to introduce specific reforms for the future. The articlepresents concrete proposals for changes in this regard, with its scope covering both modificationsof the available methods and expansion of their catalogue by introducing new methods.

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