Japan's Tsukuba Embraces Blockchain for Voting Processes

Japan's Tsukuba Embraces Blockchain for Voting Processes - Pioneering Move in the Nation

In a progressive move towards modernising voting systems, Tsukuba, Japan, is set to introduce a blockchain-based online voting system. This marks the first use of such technology in Japan, following successful tests in other countries like Estonia, Switzerland, and the United States.

Tsukuba, a leading region in Japan for scientific research and technology development, will be using the My Number card identification system for its blockchain voting system. The system is intended to aid the voting process in preventing electoral malpractices, a significant step towards ensuring a fair and secure democratic process.

The testing procedure of the blockchain voting system in Tsukuba has already been carried out, with a full implementation planned for the near future. Tatsuo Igarashi, the Mayor of Tsukuba, has commented on the testing process, expressing optimism about the potential benefits of this new technology.

Prof. Kazunori Kawamura, a specialist in online voting, has voiced concerns about the adoption of blockchain voting systems by administrative organizations and election boards. He believes that fears of errors may make the introduction of such systems challenging. However, he also emphasises the importance of enhancing the reputation of blockchain voting systems by using them for voting by expatriates first.

The adoption of blockchain technology in Japan is part of a broader trend of its increasing use around the world. Despite Japan's national regulatory system for cryptocurrency, it is coming behind some countries in the adoption of blockchain technology with the implementation of the new voting system.

The success of blockchain voting systems in various countries serves as a testament to their potential in transforming the voting process. However, full adoption is yet to be seen in most countries, including Japan. The implementation in Tsukuba is a significant step towards mainstreaming this technology in the voting process, and it will be interesting to see how it unfolds.

Voting in Tsukuba will be conducted via a computer and a card reader, making the process more accessible and secure for voters. The blockchain voting system in Tsukuba is part of an ongoing trend of using blockchain technology to transform various aspects of human society, including the financial world, education system, marriage, transportation, and supply chain systems.

As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of ensuring fair and secure elections, the adoption of blockchain technology offers a promising solution. The success of blockchain voting systems in various countries demonstrates the potential of this technology to revolutionise the voting process and ensure the integrity of democratic elections.