How elections are contributing to peace

How elections are contributing to peace

Elections are critical to support healthier democracies within a sustainable and peaceful environment. As we celebrate the International Day of Peace, let us focus on eight ways in which election processes can help peace-building and prevent political violence. This year’s theme: “The Right to Peace - The Universal Declaration of Human Rights” celebrates the 70th anniversary ...

Is Biometric voting registration a promising trend in Africa?

Is Biometric voting registration a promising trend in Africa?

Africa has been experiencing swift political transitions during the last few decades. Reforms have come with demands for greater transparency and accountability. In consequence many of the election management bodies have accepted the challenge. They have realized that weak election administration can lead to poll manipulation and decreased trust in democratic institutions. The adoption of election ...

Pakistan heads to the polls to combat gender inequality at the ballot box

Pakistan heads to the polls to combat gender inequality at the ballot box

Promoting the participation of women in politics must be a priority for all election management bodies. As the legendary American civil rights leader, Susan B. Anthony stated, “There never will be complete equality until women themselves help to make laws and elect lawmakers.” Women should be encouraged to participate in politics as voters, candidates, officials, ...

Controversy surrounds election automation in DRC

Controversy surrounds election automation in DRC

The controversy around the upcoming DRC elections has only increased after the South Korean Government distanced itself from Miru Systems, the Korean company that will be providing voting equipment to the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI in French). The decision of the Korean government to cut ties with Miru for this project comes as a surprise ...

Campaign period winds down as Turkmen voters get ready for parliamentary and local elections

Campaign period winds down as Turkmen voters get ready for parliamentary and local elections

Although Turkmenistan is recognized internationally as a repressive and authoritarian regime, citizens are scheduled to head to the polls on March 25 to elect 125 five seats in the Turkmenistan Parliament Meljis. According to the 2017 World Report published by Human Rights Watch, “Turkmenistan is among the world’s most repressive and closed countries, where the president ...