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Attitudes of Canadians toward Online Registration (2004–2011)

Conclusion

This study suggests a high and increasing level of support for online registration from 2004–2011 among all electors and suggests that it will prove to be a popular option in future elections. Based on results, uptake is likely to be highest among younger electors, those residing in urban areas, and those with higher levels of education. Most candidates are also in favour of allowing electors to register online.

The level of perceived risk associated with e-registration is significant however, and the 40 to 50% of electors who consider registering online to be risky or too risky are less willing to use it.

Appendix: Survey Question Wording

E-REGISTRATION LIKELIHOOD
YEAR QUESTION
2004 EC
(n=2822)
Q32B: How likely would you be to update your voter information or register online if it were available?
2006 EC
(n=2011)
Q14: For future elections, if you could use the Internet to register or make corrections to your voter information with Elections Canada, would you be very likely, somewhat likely, not very likely or not at all likely to do so?
2008 EC
(n=2493)
Q12: If you could go online to register or make corrections, would you be very likely, somewhat likely, not very likely or not at all likely to do so?
2011 CES
(n=1107)
QE28: If you could register to vote over the Internet, would you be very likely, somewhat likely, not very likely or not at all likely to do so?
E-REGISTRATION RISK: ELECTORS
YEAR QUESTION
2008 CES
(n=1807)
QEC18: Do you strongly agree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree or strongly disagree with the following statement: Registering online is just too risky.
2011 CES
(n=2972)
QEC14: What statement comes closest to your own view: Voting on the Internet is risky or Voting on the Internet is safe
E-REGISTRATION CANDIDATES’ ATTITUDES
YEAR QUESTION
2008 EC
(n=887)
QEC36: Do you think that electors should be able to register online?
2011 EC
(n=1007)
QEC36: Do you think that electors should be able to register using the Internet?