A week as an election officer

Sari Rantala is responsible for ensuring that advance voting proceeds in accordance with the law and regulations in Otaniemi. The week-long job as an election officer offers a nice balance to her regular job as a school secretary. 

What does an advance polling station’s election officer do?

I receive the first advance voting instructions from the Electoral Office a month and a half before the day of the election. After that, I familiarise myself with the advance polling station’s premises and equipment and plan the space to make it suitable for advance voting. I also plan the electoral staff’s shifts together with them. 

I supervise the advance voting to ensure that it proceeds according to the Ministry of Justice’s instructions and electoral laws throughout the advance voting period. In addition, I also work as an election official. 

Why do you actively participate in advance voting work?

The City of Espoo is responsible for organising advance voting in its area. As such, election officers are usually city employees. It is a nice change of pace from my daily work.  

My election career began about 20 years ago. During the previous presidential elections, I became an election officer. 

Why should Espoo residents vote in the European Elections?

The EU also decides on matters concerning Espoo and its development. In addition, we have the opportunity to elect a candidate from our own city to the European Parliament. 

Further information on the European Elections and voting in Espoo.

Text: Vesa Ville Mattila

This article has originally been published in the Espoo Magazine 1/2024.
Read other articles in the Espoo Magazine.