Municipal elections: we explain how the counting process works

A key moment in any election, the vote count intrigues as much as it impresses. Yet, behind this decisive step lies a well-oiled mechanism, accessible to all citizens. Here’s how it works, and how you can participate.

After the polling stations close, the counting operation begins. This phase involves opening the envelopes, reading the ballots, and tallying the votes. All of this takes place publicly, before the eyes of citizens, in order to ensure voting transparency.

In practice, volunteers gather around what are called “counting tables”. Each table has four individuals: a scrutineer who opens the envelopes, another who reads the ballots aloud, two others who record the results on sheets prepared for this purpose. The ballots are then gathered and checked. After the count is completed, the results are consolidated and approved by the president of the polling station.

How to become a scrutineer?

Good news: no specific training is required to participate in the count. Any citizen registered on the voter rolls can volunteer. In general, all you need to do is: sign up with the polling station president on election day, or volunteer in advance at the town hall.

The position of scrutineer mainly requires accuracy, great attention, and a certain degree of responsibility. It is also a tangible way to participate in democratic life. The counting process begins immediately after the polling stations close, usually at 6 p.m. or 8 p.m. depending on the locality. The time required varies depending on the number of voters, but is generally estimated between one and three hours.
In small municipalities, the process is usually quick. In larger cases, it can take longer, especially with heavy voter turnout.

Participating in vote counting offers an inside look at the electoral process. It is also a community moment, where citizens and volunteers work together to maintain the vitality of democracy. Everyone has the opportunity to participate in the count at their polling station on Sunday, March 22, 2026.