The ability of individuals, groups, or the general public to scrutinize the activities of election officials, voters, and other participants in the electoral process. Transparency is achieved when observers can see that the requirements of applicable laws are being followed and the process is seen to be administered consistently and fairly. Under-vote Marking the ballot for no candidate, or fewer than the maximum number allowed in the race; where only one vote was permitted, this results in the ballot being rejected; where multiple choices are permitted, the valid markings are still recorded; often this occurs on purpose to indicate a protest vote, but can also occur unintentionally.
What is transparency?
The term Transparency refers to the quality of making election rules, procedures, records, decisions, and evidence sufficiently open and observable for appropriate public understanding and verification. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
What does transparency do?
In election administration, Transparency is applied according to its defined purpose: the quality of making election rules, procedures, records, decisions, and evidence sufficiently open and observable for appropriate public understanding and verification. Officials then use the relevant eligibility, filing, ballot, timing, notice, or procedural rules for that election. The exact process can differ by office, election type, and jurisdiction.
Why does transparency matter in election administration?
Understanding Transparency matters because the concept can affect election administration, voter participation, legal decisions, or resilience. In this context, it refers to the quality of making election rules, procedures, records, decisions, and evidence sufficiently open and observable for appropriate public understanding and verification. The practical effect depends on the authority, procedure, and jurisdiction governing the specific election, system, or incident.
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The ability of individuals, groups, or the general public to scrutinize the activities of election officials, voters, and other participants in the electoral process. Transparency is achieved when observers can see that the requirements of applicable laws are being followed and the process is seen to be administered consistently and fairly. Under-vote Marking the ballot for no candidate, or fewer than the maximum number allowed in the race; where only one vote was permitted, this results in the ballot being rejected; where multiple choices are permitted, the valid markings are still recorded; often this occurs on purpose to indicate a protest vote, but can also occur unintentionally.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Transparency. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 22, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/transparency
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