2022 Hverlandic HverVision referendum
The Hverlandic HverVision Referendum was a nationwide public vote held in Hverland on 5 June 2022, to approve or reject the implementation of the HverVision plan. The ambitious project, proposed by the Visionary Party, the Centre Party, and the Conservative Nationals, aimed to transition Hverland to a 100% digital society. This comprehensive plan included the digitization of all existing paper records, creation of a new digital public services portal to eliminate the need for any paperwork/mail, provision of a digital mailbox for all citizens, and a broader transition to digital technology wherever feasible.
Proposal and debate
The HverVision plan was unveiled by the government in early 2022 as a transformative initiative to make Hverland a leading digital society globally. The Visionary Party, in coalition with the Centre Party and the Conservative Nationals, had gained parliamentary approval for the initiative. However, due to the plan's extensive scope and its implications for the society, a public referendum was called to ensure broad consensus and approval.
The campaign period witnessed vigorous debates on the merits and potential drawbacks of the HverVision plan. Proponents touted the benefits of increased efficiency, accessibility, and environmental sustainability. They also emphasized the potential for advanced analytics and AI-powered services in enhancing public service delivery. Meanwhile, opponents raised concerns about data privacy and security, the transition cost, and the potential marginalization of individuals lacking digital skills or access.
Referendum
Of the 100,539 eligible voters in Hverland, 82% turned out for the referendum. The final results showed that 83% of voters were in favor of implementing the HverVision plan.
Language
The ballot presented to voters during the 2022 HverVision Referendum asked the following question:
"Do you approve the implementation of the HverVision plan for a fully digital Hverland?"
Party positions
Position | Political parties | |
---|---|---|
Yes | Centre Party | |
Visionary Party | ||
Liberals | ||
The Greens | ||
Alternative | ||
Urban Progressives | ||
Moderates | ||
Neutral | Social Democratic Party | |
Conservative Nationals | ||
No | Natural Balance | |
Albmotválgabealde |
Results
Choice | Votes | % |
---|---|---|
Yes | 68,834 | 83.49 |
No | 13,608 | 16.51 |
Total votes | 82,442 | 100.00 |
Registered voters and turnout | 100,539 | 82.00 |
Source: Hverlandic Electoral Authority |
Aftermath
Following the successful referendum, the government began the extensive process of implementing the HverVision plan. The Office for Technological Modernization was reorganised as the Office for Technology and Data Governance which began the digitization of vast archives of paper records, development and launch of the digital public services portal, and the provision of digital mailboxes for every citizen.