After reading that I think maybe a reward system would work better than a penalty?

Might encourage people w/ jobs who can't get to the polls to go and vote, but doesn't put unnecessary drain on their life.

They also should make voting day a national holiday, and give a tax deduction to companies who allow their employees to take as much time as they need to vote (given some lines can be hours long in places).

Edit: My comment is directed to the U.S.A. as that's where I'm from.

We currently have "I Voted" stickers.

Free ice cream with each vote?

I'd vote a few times for that!

maybe like $50, and $10 extra for each election in a row--like if you don't miss one else you start over at $50, including local elections. They could have a mobile app and have badges too, and 10'th election you get a free sub.

they have a 'democracy sausage' - i think it also may be compulsory to eat one.