What Taiwan can teach the US about how to run an election

Taiwan’s commitment to election transparency and efficiency has garnered international attention. The 2024 elections in Taiwan provide valuable insights for the United States to refine its own democratic process. From the insistence on election transparency to the strategic choice of voting day, Taiwan’s approach offers crucial lessons that can contribute to strengthening the democratic fabric of the U.S.

Transparency

One of the key takeaways from Taiwan’s 2024 elections is the unwavering commitment to election transparency. In the U.S., concerns about the legitimacy of elections have become increasingly prevalent. By emulating Taiwan’s example, America can adopt measures to ensure transparency in its electoral processes, ultimately bolstering public trust.

Taiwan’s Central Election Commission played a pivotal role in dispelling doubts about the fairness of the election. In the U.S., establishing an independent and impartial body akin to Taiwan’s CEC could significantly contribute to building confidence in the electoral system. Transparency measures, such as robust oversight and clear communication channels, are essential to addressing concerns about the legitimacy of election outcomes.

Post-election controversies and disputes have become more common in the U.S. Adopting a similar culture of election transparency could help in diffusing tensions and promoting a more cohesive society. Without transparency, democracy will indeed die in darkness.

Banning of publication of polling results

To prevent media manipulation of voter ballot decisions, Taiwan implemented a ban on the publication of polling results 10 days before voting day. This strategic move ensures that voters make decisions based on their convictions rather than being influenced by last-minute polls. The U.S. could benefit from exploring similar measures to safeguard the integrity of the democratic process and reduce the effect of media sensationalism on voter behavior.

Same-day counting and announcement

Taiwan’s commitment to same-day vote counting and result announcement is a testament to the efficiency of its electoral system. The U.S. can learn from this approach by implementing measures to expedite the counting process and provide timely election results. Real-time accountability not only enhances the credibility of the electoral process, but also minimizes the window for misinformation and speculation.

In-person voting and voter ID

Taiwan’s insistence on in-person voting and the requirement of a voter ID contribute to the overall integrity of the election process. The U.S. can evaluate the merits of these measures in securing its own elections against potential fraud and ensuring that each vote is cast by an eligible citizen. Striking the right balance between accessibility and security is essential to maintain the trust of the electorate.

Saturday voting

Taiwan’s choice of Saturday as the voting day presents a pragmatic shift from the historical Tuesday tradition in America, which is rooted in an 18th-century agrarian society. The modern reality demands a reevaluation of voting day practices. The U.S. could either follow Taiwan’s lead in choosing Saturday as the voting day or consider making Tuesday a national non-working holiday dedicated to voting. This would align with the changing dynamics of contemporary life, promoting higher voter turnout and participation.

The lessons derived from Taiwan’s 2024 elections offer valuable insights for the United States to enhance its democratic processes. If adopted, the U.S. could fortify its commitment to a government that truly represents the will of the people, ensuring the continued strength and resilience of its democratic institutions.

Miles Yu is a senior fellow and director of the China Center at the Hudson Institute.