Contrary to the impression that the ongoing debate in the Czech Parliament suggests a deep societal divide over the introduction of postal votes for Czech citizens abroad, a recent survey by the STEM/MARK agency paints a different picture. The study unveils that supporters of implementing postal voting significantly outnumber the opposition, with an approval rate of 47 percent compared to 35 percent against.

The survey results also indicate that the proposal enjoys robust support among backers of the ruling coalition parties. Notably, 39 percent of ANO voters and 34 percent of SPD movement supporters, despite their leaders’ strong resistance and portrayal of the measure as a threat to democracy, express support for postal voting.

Jan Burianec, the study author from the STEM/MARK agency, emphasized that the proponents of postal voting in the lower house of the Czech Parliament appear to have the upper hand in garnering citizen support. Even among voters aligned with opposition parties, a notable portion favors the introduction of postal voting for Czechs residing abroad.

The survey delves into demographic nuances, revealing that younger individuals, those with higher education levels, and residents of larger cities are more inclined towards supporting postal voting. However, when probing opinions about the potential introduction of postal voting within the Czech Republic and the prospect of internet-based voting, a higher degree of societal controversy emerges.

While 40 percent of respondents express approval for the possibility of voting by mail within the Czech Republic, 44 percent hold the opposite view. Similarly, 44 percent support the option to vote over the internet, but 47 percent are opposed.

Burianec highlighted that the topics of postal voting and internet-based voting create divisions among socio-demographic groups, particularly in terms of age and education. He suggested that Czechs might perceive electronic voting as a potential next step following the successful implementation of postal voting from abroad, potentially resolving any lingering doubts about the process.

Article by Prague Forum