GEOSPATIAL DATA IN NATIONAL ELECTIONS

SURCON QUESTION: THE NECESSITY OF GEOSPATIAL DATA IN PLANNING, PREPARATION AND EXECUTION OF NATIONAL ELECTIONS.

Geospatial data gives information about the location of phenomenon and their characteristics on which human activities depend. Being geographically referenced, geospatial data or geoinformation gives the location and size of places on the earth surface. Thus, geospatial data impact the activities taking place on, under and near the surface of the earth. Therefore, all human activities that are referenced to the earth surface need geospatial data for effective planning, execution, recording and referencing.

Generally speaking, national elections have a lot in common with population headcount. Like national census, the aim of elections is to accurately determine the total number of voters in a polling unit, how many out of that number voted for which candidate and how many did not vote. These figures are later collated from all polling units and summed to give the final figures. It is obvious therefore, that basic unit of electioneering system is the polling unit. Like enumeration units in a population census, polling units should be clearly identified, properly located, easily accessible, and graphically displayed. Clearly identified, properly located and easily accessible polling stations guarantee well-organized, peaceful and free and fair elections.

The only tool that can do these effectively is adequate, accurate and current maps, which graphically display geospatial data. Geospatial data, derived from accurate and current maps, among other things, can be used to estimate the number of eligible voters through population census. That estimate will enhance voters registration logistics and distribution of voters materials.

Moreover, administrative maps will be needed for identification of state and local government area boundaries. Natural and man-made features within an area can be clearly identified in a topographic map. In addition, topographic maps give information about the terrain, routes of access, settlements in rural areas. Orthophotos from aerial photographs and satellite imageries offer synoptic view of an area, clearly show dwelling units in urban areas and their various types. Population of urban areas had been estimated from such data. The combination of topographic maps and orthophotos had been used to locate enumeration areas for population census. The same method can be used to determine locations of election polling units. Dwelling units can be grouped to form polling areas, and a suitable place identified in the area to serve as a polling station. This can be done on appropriate maps before ever going to identify them on the ground. Thus maps enhance adequate planning of elections.

Furthermore, logistics, transportation and distribution, which are integral parts of planning, can be done quickly and effectively using geospatial data in maps. Photographs and imageries provide synoptic view of large areas so that all features of interest can be identified. Roads, bridges and footpaths leading to areas of interest can be identified and alternative routes noted. Other places of interest to electoral personnel, such as hotel accommodation, warehouses, police stations and military formations, can also be identified. This will enhance distribution of electoral materials and personnel.

Security of people and materials before, during and after elections is an important part of election in developing countries. Security feeds on logistics, intelligent information gathering and quick response to emergency. These issues strive on availability of data especially geospatial data about accurate location of crime-prone areas, incidents of fraud and violence, and routes to follow during quick response. Geospatial information enhances identification of security breaches even before they occur, disaster mitigation and access to areas where emergency response is needed. This ensures safety of personnel and electoral materials during elections.

It is apparent, therefore, that successful and peaceful national elections largely depend on availability of geospatial data, which can be derived from accurate and up-to-date maps. From planning before elections to accreditation during elections, and collation of results after elections, geospatial data play vital roles in national elections. These data are needed for location of polling stations, logistics, distribution of electoral materials and security of personnel and the electorate. It is therefore advisable for government to heavily invest in the collection, processing, storage and distribution of geospatial data for successful national elections.

DISCLAIMER: This material is only an attempt to answer an examination question, though written from a background of solid knowledge and practical experience in Surveying and Geoinformatics. It has not gone through peer review. Therefore, all views and opinions expressed therein remain the responsibility of the author and do not necessarily represent that of any institution.  Feedback on corrections and constructive criticisms are welcome. Thank you.