Digital divide impact on e-voting adoption in middle eastern country

Abstract

To ensure a high level of participation by voters and their trust in the election process when using an e-voting system, the voters who are on the other side of the digital divide must be considered. Although the Jordanian government runs a campaign promoting voting in parliamentary elections, the voters' turnout to elections is not high. This research paper therefore introduces the concept of the digital divide and its impact on e-voting system adoption. A framework for e-voting digital divide factors is proposed which presents the main factors that would influence voters' intentions to use an online voting (e-voting) system. These factors comprise: age, education, income, and internet use. With the impact of these factors articulated, this research paper is significant in helping the Jordanian government to develop a strategy to ensure higher participation by voters in selecting their candidates. This research paper also provides a foundation for future empirical research on the influence of the digital divide on e-voting adoption.