Swedish Election Authority criticises ballot paper system

Several incidents during Swedish elections stem from the current ballot paper system, according to Anna Nyqvist, Head of the Election Authority.

"We have long advocated that political parties should not handle ballot papers," Nyqvist told public broadcaster SVT News.

The Ballot Paper Committee was recently tasked with re-examining the Swedish ballot paper system and is considering, among other things, a design that places greater emphasis on check boxes.

The Election Authority advocates a system in which parties do not distribute or deliver ballot papers themselves.

"In many countries, the ballot paper is a secure document issued at the polling station. That way, you know it is printed correctly and contains the right information," said Nyqvist.

Several incidents have occurred during this year's election.

"The majority concern ballot papers, whether stolen, moved, or missing," said Nyqvist.