In Argentina, for the first time in a national election, the Single Paper Ballot (BUP) will be implemented, a system that aims for greater clarity, transparency, and austerity. The government disseminated an official instruction on social media to show the procedure that voters must follow in the elections of October 2025 (instagram.com, argentina.gob.ar).
The BUP consists of a single sheet where all categories and candidates are listed. It was established by Law 27.781 in 2024 and replaces traditional party ballots. Voters will have to mark only one option per category, fold the ballot to preserve secrecy, and place it in the ballot box.
This change implies a modification in the voting dynamics. It will no longer be necessary for parties to distribute their own ballots, nor for voters to search for their preferred option in the voting booth. With the BUP, everything is gathered in a single document, which reduces decision-making time and simplifies the electoral act.
Among its advantages, the cost reduction is highlighted —from approximately 72 billion pesos to about 40 billion—, the improvement in transparency, and the elimination of irregular practices related to ballot printing (infobae.com). Furthermore, the design of the paper prevents the marking from being visible from the outside, ensuring the privacy of the vote.
For people with visual disabilities or difficulties reading, assistance from polling officials or the use of special templates is anticipated. The government also made online simulators available so that any citizen can practice before the election day.
The introduction of the Single Paper Ballot marks an important change in the Argentine electoral system, combining efficiency, savings, and trust in the process. Although it requires adapting to a new format, it is presented as a key tool to modernize elections and strengthen democracy.
The experience of other provinces and countries that already use this system demonstrates that, with proper training for polling officials and voters, the process becomes more agile and secure. With this reform, Argentina takes another step towards a more modern and transparent electoral model.
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