Representatives of the Greek diaspora have requested the expansion of postal voting rights for national elections, at a recent parliamentary committee.
According to Kathimerini, the representatives were summoned to share their views on an upcoming legislation poised to grant mail-in voting rights for European Parliament elections and national referendums.
While praising the government’s plans, they also stressed that these rights should extend to national elections, with hopes that it can be done by the next election cycle.
Calls were also made for online voting, digitising the voting process to allow more Greek expatriates and members of the diaspora to participate.
The bill is scheduled for a parliament vote next week.
Earlier this week Interior Minister Niki Kerameus, speaking on SKAI TV, explained how the process will work.
She detailed the envelopes and ballots as well as assuring the citizens that the whole postal voting method is secure.
For voters wishing to participate, they need to access the platform on gov.gr, which can be logged into by using your Taxisnet credentials.
Then they will have to officially declare their intention to submit a postal vote at least 40 days before the election day via the online platform.
Once the declaration of intent is submitted, a confirmation SMS will be sent to the voter’s mobile phone which will allow tracking of the ballot envelope until it is delivered to their address.
Voters must then correctly complete, seal and return the envelope to the appropriate Greek authorities before June 8, the day before the European Elections.
