Photo Gallery Feed

Access for All During the Philippines’ 2013 Midterm Poll

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:25:22 -0700

The May 13, 2013, midterm elections in the Philippines were significant, as they marked the second time Filipinos participated in nationwide automated elections. Many believe these midterm polls will forecast what the 2016 general elections will look like.

The Philippine Election Commission made strides in ensuring election access for vulnerable populations, consulting with stakeholders and civil society in the lead up to Election Day.

Celebrating 2013 International Women's Day

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 10:11:53 -0800

Today, Friday, March 8, IFES celebrates 2013 International Women’s Day. For over 25 years, IFES has worked to ensure all individuals, men and women, participate equally in the political process.

The full participation of women in political, social and economic life is beneficial to families, communities and nations. Women’s presence in leadership positions, along with gender-sensitive male counterparts, can play a critical role in increasing participation and developing a diversity of viewpoints in decision making. IFES empowers women throughout the world to play a stronger role in this process.

Ensuring the Rights and Voices of Nigeriens: Photos from the Natural Resources Industry

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 12:56:19 -0800

It is important that Nigeriens have a voice in the way resources from their country are used. Genuine and transparent citizen participation is vital to the African nation’s economic development and security.

Although there has been a new wave of participation, challenges remain. IFES is currently working with civil society organizations (CSO) and the Nigerien government to increase awareness of the risks and rights of those in the extractive resources industry. This gallery is a collection of photos taken throughout Niger as IFES and CSOs host outreach activities, such as concerts, street theater and radio campaigns.

First Line of Action: Preparing Poll Workers for Jordan’s Upcoming Elections

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 13:25:00 -0800

In preparation of the January 23, 2013 parliamentary elections, IFES held a training of trainers workshop in Karak, Jordan. Part of a nationwide cascade training plan, the goal was to enable individuals to officially train poll workers in their home districts. The trainings provided insight into Election Day procedures and polling station regulations. The participants also received an overview of the new laws, regulations and executive instructions that will be in effect during the upcoming elections.

U.S. Election Program Brings Global Perspective to American Elections

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 13:48:42 -0800

The 2012 U.S. Election Program, held November 4-7, brought together election management officials, elected representatives, diplomats and members of the international development community from more than 60 countries to witness and learn about the electoral process in the United States. More than 200 professionals participated in the full four-day conference, and more than 400 took part in a tour of Washington-area polling stations on Election Day. The 2012 program was the 11th since 1992.

Voters Approach Polls with Hope for Honduran Democracy

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 14:43:44 -0800

On November 18, 2012 Honduras saw the first primary elections since the 2009 coup d’état. For many citizens, the elections represented the normalization and restoration of the country’s political system and its continued path toward democracy. These images provide a look into this important Election Day.

Elections for All: Empowering the Underrepresented

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 07:42:00 -0700

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees all individuals the freedom to partake in their nation’s government and political processes, including elections. Yet, many individuals around the world face barriers to full participation due to social, ethnic and economic inequalities. IFES’ programs empower these underrepresented populations to participate in political life in a variety of ways. This photo gallery provides some examples of our work in this area.

Snapshot of Georgia’s 2013 Parliamentary By-Elections

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 11:21:00 -0700

On April 27, 2013, Georgia held by-elections in the districts of Nadzaladevi, Baghdati and Samtredia to fill three majoritarian seats. These seats opened following political appointments made after the October 2012 parliamentary elections. Eleven candidates in Nadzaladevi, eight in Baghdati and five in Samtredia registered as participants for the by-elections. According to Georgia’s Central Election Commission (CEC), the district of Nadzaladevi in Tbilisi has 140,000 voters, making it the third largest district in Georgia. The districts of Samtredia and Baghdati in the Imereti region have 48,000 and 24,000 voters, respectively. The images below provide an inside look at Election Day.

Snapshots: 2012 Manatt Democracy Awards Dinner

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 11:21:00 -0700

IFES' 2012 Charles T. Manatt Democracy Awards dinner was held in Washington, D.C., on September 11. Current and former U.S. elected officials, members of the diplomatic corps, colleagues and friends gathered to honor this year's award recipients: Rep. David Dreier (R-Calif.), Rep. Nita Lowey (D-N.Y.) and women's advocate Maimuna Mwidau of Kenya. The evening also offered an opportunity to commemorate IFES' 25th anniversary.

A Quarter Century of Sustainable Democracy

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 12:28:00 -0700

In 1987, IFES began assisting election management bodies across the globe deliver better elections to their citizens. Twenty-five years later, we have worked with stakeholders in every aspect of the electoral cycle in over 135 countries. This photo gallery celebrates IFES' 25 proudest moments from around the world.

Youth Participation: Preparing for the Future, Making an Impact Today

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 13:09:00 -0700

International Youth Day, commemorated every year on August 12, provides an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of young persons around the world to their countries' democratic systems. By helping spread information about the importance of voting, participating in workshops on civic responsibility, forming organizations to advance democratic practices and casting their ballots – youth are powerful change agents in their societies.

Libyans Vote in First Post-Gaddafi Election

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 07:54:00 -0700

On July 7, 2012, Libya took a major step on its path to democracy when it conducted elections for General National Congress, the body that is replacing the current unelected National Transitional Council. Despite dealing with a short timeframe to implement the poll and a challenging security environment, the event was considered a success. Election Day was a joyful occasion as citizens lined up to cast their ballots in the first poll since Mu'amar Gaddafi was deposed.

From Ballots to Touch Screens: Integrating Technology into Voting

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 09:16:00 -0700

Digital ballot readers, electronic results transmission systems and SMS messaging to inform the electorate can help countries streamline and improve the electoral process. As election management bodies turn to technology to help run elections, they must take their country's cultural, political and legal context into consideration to ensure the new systems enhance — and don't disrupt — democracy. This gallery shows some of the technological tools that are being used around the world.

Step by Step: Preventing Fraud in Elections

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:11:18 -0700

Poll workers and election observers can take a number of simple yet powerful steps to protect the integrity of the vote and promote trust in the electoral process. Together, these measures help deter and prevent fraud. These images from around the world show poll workers, observers and citizens working together to make elections transparent and credible. IFES recently released a white paper defining electoral fraud, which will further help stakeholders address this unfortunate practice. Click here to download the paper.

Media Centers: Serving Democracy Through the Press

Thu, 03 May 2012 09:56:34 -0700

As the global leader in democracy promotion, IFES has helped election management bodies (EMBs) around the world set up media centers to facilitate the flow of information and enhance transparency in the electoral process. A media center allows EMBs, the authoritative sources of election news, to distribute real-time information to local and foreign journalists, including updates on the progress of voting and preliminary announcements of election results. For elections, independent media serve to underscore key issues, shed light on candidates and political parties, provide voter education and keep the population updated on electoral developments.

Promoting Safe Elections for All

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 16:47:36 -0700

Ensuring that all citizens feel safe in participating or competing in the electoral process is one of the greatest challenges in supporting an election process that is inclusive and accessible. Promoting election security involves all actors, from the election management bodies to the security sector to citizens who take a stand against violence. This gallery of images illustrates the roles these groups play in mitigating violence so that credible elections can take place.

Myanmar's Landmark Vote

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 07:11:00 -0700

Myanmar held historic by-elections on April 1, to fill 45 vacant parliamentary seats. According to news reports, the National League for Democracy (NLD), led by pro-democracy advocate Aung San Suu Kyi, won at least 40 of the 45 contested seats.

Speaking to reporters on Election Day, Suu Kyi said she hoped the polls marked the start of a new era in Myanmar and were a hopeful sign for democracy and reconciliation. As the country prepares for general elections at the end of 2015, she has vowed to use her voice to push for further reforms.

The White House described the election as “an important step in Burma’s democratic transformation” and said in a statement that it hopes it is “an indication that the Government of Burma intends to continue along the path of greater openness, transparency, and reform.”

2012 IFES Photography Contest

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 15:00:56 -0800

IFES held its fourth-annual Photography Contest between January 5 and February 16, 2012. The contest seeks images that illustrate the ways individuals around the world demonstrate a sense of civic responsibility and call to action. This year's contest included more than 450 eligible entries in two categories, one open to the public and the other open to current and former IFES employees. This gallery features the images chosen as winners and finalists in each category.

Women Count: A Global Spotlight

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:31:00 -0800

At the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), gender equality is seen as a crucial element of democracy, since democracy cannot exist if half the population does not have an equal say in a country's government and affairs. To mark International Women's Day 2012 and emphasize the importance of promoting equal rights for women, IFES presents a selection of outstanding photographs online and on display at IFES' Washington, D.C., headquarters that highlight barriers and advances in women’s political participation around the world.

AGENDA: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 06:58:00 -0800

On February 1 and 2, over 100 representatives from disabled persons' organizations, civil society, election management bodies and government in Southeast Asia, as well as online viewers from around the world, gathered for the first-ever conference in Southeast Asia to promote the equal and full participation of persons with disabilities in democratic processes. The event was hosted by the ASEAN General Election Network for Disability Access (AGENDA), a network of Southeast Asian organizations focused on advancing the rights of persons with disabilities that IFES helped create.

Advocating for Gender Equality in Papua New Guinea

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 09:58:00 -0800

To help local women's organizations in the PNG get the Equality and Participation Bill passed, IFES implemented a training program to boost their skills in professional lobbying.

2011: A Year of Momentous Elections

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:05:13 -0800

2011 was a year of historic elections. From the referendum that brought independence to South Sudan, to the first free and fair elections in Tunisia and the first legislative election in 10 years in Cote d’Ivoire, the year was full of important polls and milestones for democracy. This gallery presents images of some of the elections around the world in which IFES had the privilege to be involved.

Another Step Forward: Parliamentary Elections in Côte d'Ivoire

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 10:09:09 -0800

Côte d'Ivoire held its first legislative elections in more than a decade on December 11. These elections will usher in the first democratically elected parliament since 2005, when the mandate of the parliament elected in 2000 expired. The elections are considered to be another step toward reconciliation for the West African nation.

Egypt's Historic Elections Begin

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:05:47 -0800

On November 28, Egyptians began voting in the first parliamentary elections since the January 25 revolution. November 28 marked the beginning of Phase I of the People’s Assembly elections; Phases II and III are set to take place in December and January, respectively. Voting for the Shura Council will commence on January 29 and end on March 11, also taking place in three phases. This parliament will be tasked with selecting the 100-person constitutional assembly that will draft Egypt’s constitution. The constitution will determine key issues in Egypt’s democratic transition such as procedures for electing the president, responsibilities of the executive branch, and rights and freedoms for all Egyptians.

Photo Gallery: Elections and Democratic Transitions to Watch in 2013

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:05:47 -0800

While elections and democratic transitions are significant to a country’s advancement, some events have the potential to make not only a regional impact, but a global impact as well.

This photo gallery takes a look at the electoral processes and transitions to watch in 2013.

Elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:53:00 -0800

On November 28, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) held presidential and legislative elections. IFES has been working in the DRC for over a decade, most recently with programs aimed at tackling corruption and building the capacity of civil society.

Guatemala's Historic Second Round

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:13:56 -0800

On 6 November, Guatemala held the runoff for its presidential election. The poll that was eventually won by Otto Pérez Perez Molina, a retired army general from the Patriotic Party (Partido Patriota, PP), had a record turnout for a second round vote. It also ushered in the first female vice president of Guatemala as both presidential candidates had a woman for a running mate. IFES assisted Guatemala’s election commission (Tribunal Supremo Electoral, TSE) in a number of efforts, including voter outreach, poll worker training and increasing electoral access for persons with disabilities.

Tunisia: Voting for the 'First' Time

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 10:16:01 -0700

Tunisia held the country’s first free and fair election on 23 October. Millions of Tunisians went to the polls to cast their ballots for the National Constituent Assembly, which will have one year to write a new constitution. Excitement was high as the country that ignited the Arab Spring was also the first of those countries to hold an election. The counting of ballots, which was done by poll workers, went on into the night as election observers watched the process.

Liberians Vote in Great Numbers

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:05:52 -0700

On 11 October, Liberia held its second election since the conclusion of the bloody civil war that lasted from 1999 to 2003. The first round of the presidential election featured 16 candidates, including incumbent President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. IFES staff visited a number of polling stations.

A Week in Cambodia

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 07:11:41 -0700

IFES’ Women’s Leadership program, conducted in five provinces across Cambodia the spring of 2011, sought to increase women’s personal development and leadership skills and knowledge of the election process. During the week of 14-21 September, some of the participants joined IFES staff in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap to discuss what they have learned. This week coincided with the Pchum Ben festival, during which Cambodians pay their respect to deceased relatives, and the 2011 voter registration period, which IFES witnessed. This photo gallery compiles images from the week of 14-21 September in Phnom Penh.

Conversations and Films: Voter Education Efforts in Liberia

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:43:18 -0700

In an effort to increase awareness and knowledge on the 23 August constitutional referendum that was held in Liberia, IFES and 18 civil society organizations (CSOs) launched an extensive civic and voter education campaign. Posters were placed throughout Liberian towns and villages, outreach was performed for individuals across the country and a mobile cinema featuring a film on the changes that would be implemented by the referendum went on tour.

Remembering Charles T. Manatt

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 13:51:25 -0700

Manatt served as Chairman of IFES’ Board of Directors from 1993 to 1999 and was a distinct leader, with unwavering commitment to spreading democracy around the world and helping those who are less fortunate. He touched the lives of many, mentoring and befriending people at every stage of his distinguished career and with a keen interest in nurturing future political and business leaders. This gallery offers a few highlights of Manatt's work with IFES.

Reflecting on the Role of Media in Elections

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 13:51:00 -0700

Throughout the electoral and political process, media can shed light on candidates and political parties; educate voters on key procedures; and inform the public of electoral developments. Media plays an influential role in elections and is crucial for the development of democracy. IFES helps journalists and election management bodies (EMBs) around the world strengthen their relationship. IFES does this by training journalists and EMB; establishing media centers; and using traditional and social media to better communicate with citizens. These photos capture the role of media during the electoral process.

South Sudan's Journey to Independence

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 07:33:30 -0700

On July 9, the Republic of South Sudan becomes the world’s newest nation. Independence from Sudan is the result of years of conflict, an internationally mediated peace agreement and a peaceful popular vote for separation. Although violence continues throughout Sudan, the January 2011 referendum on independence for South Sudan marks a triumph of the democratic process. More than 97 percent of registered southern Sudanese voters cast ballots to determine their nation’s future. This photo gallery depicts the milestones along South Sudan’s path to independence.

Voter Registration in Nepal

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 09:21:26 -0700

In an effort to increase the quality of the Voter’s List and reduce the possibility of voter fraud, Nepal’s Election Commission began implementing a three-phase voter registration program in September 2010. The new registration process is computerized and, in addition to personal information, collects the registrant’s photos and fingerprints, marking the first time biometrics have been used in the voter registration process in Nepal. The new registration system is part of an effort to ensure more fair and credible elections.

Nigerians Vote in Multiple National Elections

Thu, 26 May 2011 10:33:22 -0700

Nigeria held a series of nationwide elections in April 2011, beginning with National Assembly polls on April 9 and a presidential election on April 16. Elections for state governors were held on April 26 in most parts of the country but delayed until April 28 in two states due to violence following the presidential vote. After registering to vote in January and February, Nigerians underwent a voter accreditation process in the morning of each election day before casting their ballots in the afternoon. Despite the considerable security challenges, the polls were considered generally fair and credible by international observers.

Voter Education in Haiti

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 07:07:30 -0700

After a close and controversial first-round presidential vote in November, on March 20 Haiti held a runoff election for its top two presidential candidates, Mirlande Manigat and Michel Martelly. As part of its technical assistance to the CEP, and in close coordination and cooperation with other partners, IFES organized a public information campaign reminding voters to check their registration information, confirm the location of their polling station and cast their ballots on Election Day.

2011 IFES Photography Contest

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 13:35:10 -0700

IFES’ third-annual Photography Contest drew nearly 500 entries from professional and amateur photographers from around the world. The democracy-themed competition showcases the many ways individuals worldwide demonstrate a sense of civic responsibility and call to action. Featured here are the winners and finalists from the two competition categories. The Public Category is open to all photographers ages 18 and older, and the IFES’ Choice Category is open only to current IFES employees.

IFES Observes Voter Registration in Nigeria

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 12:33:46 -0800

More than 65 million Nigerians registered to vote between January 15 and February 8 for the upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections in April. IFES conducted unofficial monitoring in the southern and northeastern regions of the country in order to give feedback on the registration process and results to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja. INEC experienced technical problems with the Direct Data Capture (DDC) machines used to register voters and faced serious challenges deploying machines and registration workers across the country. However, at the end of the period, many civil society groups gave the exercise positive marks and Nigerians remained enthusiastic for the upcoming polls.

Southern Sudan: Referendum for Secession

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 08:07:12 -0800

Sunday, January 9 kicked off a week of voting in Southern Sudan on a referendum to determine whether it will secede from the north. The overall mood was jubilant as citizens fulfilled one of the points established during the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), which was signed on January 9, 2005 between the Government of the Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement. The CPA expired on July 9, 2011. Final results from the referendum are expected to be released in late January and final results will be made public by February 14, 2011.

Southern Sudan Registers to Vote in the Referendum

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:04:37 -0800

An estimated 3.9 million Southern Sudanese registered in November and December 2010 to cast a ballot in the referendum occurring between January 9-15, 2011. The SSRC has established polling centers in the north and in eight countries (Australia, Canada, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, the UK, and the USA) and the SSRB has established polling stations throughout Southern Sudan. As a key milestone of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), the referendum will determine whether Sudan remains unified or if the ten states of Southern Sudan will secede. At least 60% of those registered to vote must cast a ballot for the results to be binding.

IFES Assists Kosovo with First-Ever Parliamentary Elections Since Independence

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 12:39:13 -0800

In cooperation with the Central Election Commission of Kosovo, IFES administered 14 alternative polling stations during the parliamentary elections on December 12, 2010. The parliamentary elections were Kosovo’s first since declaring independence from Serbia in 2008. The alternative polling stations were positioned in northern Kosovo where the Election Commission experienced difficulty recruiting for and opening regular polling centers. IFES arranged international teams of poll workers to staff the stations and help ensure proper handling of election materials before the votes were counted.

IFES’ 2010 U.S. Election Program

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:46:00 -0800

During every U.S. congressional and presidential election since 1992, IFES has held its U.S. Election Program. The three-day event brings together diplomats, parliamentarians and election officials from around the world to observe the voting process in the United States and exchange ideas and experiences on voting. This year’s program consisted of panel discussions, tours of polling stations in the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland, and an evening reception at the House of Sweden during which the returns of the U.S. elections were followed. Ghanaian Electoral Commission Chairman Kwadwo Afari-Gyan was also presented IFES’ Joe C. Baxter Award for his extraordinary contributions to promoting democratic practices.

IFES Kicks Off BRIDGE Training in Niger

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 07:27:00 -0700

In September 2010, IFES hosted a showcase of BRIDGE training programs in Niger. The showcase introduced BRIDGE — which stands for Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections — to Nigerien elections officials and representatives from international partner organizations who will participate in more extensive training during the coming year. The professional development modules and activities that comprise BRIDGE have been used around the world to help local and national administrators develop the skills and abilities to carry out fair, efficient elections. IFES’ work with the Nigerien Commission Electoral Nationale Indepéndante (CENI) during the 2010-2011 election process marks the first time BRIDGE has been offered in Niger.

IFES 2010 Staff-Only Photography Contest

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 07:40:29 -0700

Our annual staff-only photography competition profiles the many ways staff support the organization’s mission. Featured here are the winners and finalists of three contest categories under the theme “IFES at Work”.

IFES will begin accepting submissions for next year’s staff-only contest on June 15, 2011.

U.S. Ambassador for Women’s Issues Visits IFES’ Garima Project in India

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 06:34:29 -0700

On September 14, 2010, U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Melanne S. Verveer visited the Garima project in New Delhi, India. Verveer helped launch the Garima project in November 2009 and returned to observe its progress during a recent visit to India. Garima, which means “dignity” in Hindi, works to enhance women’s participation in political, economic and social processes, encourage political advocacy, and curb practices such as gender-based violence, female feticide and child marriage. The project is implemented by IFES and Counterpart International and collaborates with several nongovernmental organizations in India.

IFES co-hosts Symposium to Spread Electoral Awareness in Egypt

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 08:18:48 -0700

On September 26, 2010, IFES and the Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies (ACPSS) hosted an Electoral Symposium to spread electoral awareness before the upcoming People’s Assembly elections in November, 2010. The event featured distinguished speakers from political parties, government officials, members of civil society and election experts. Among them were IFES consultants Lisa Kammerud and Bashar Eldeek , Country Director Charles Lasham, People’s Assembly and Taggamu’ Party Member Mr. Mohamed Abdelaziz Shaaban, former Minister of Sport and Youth Dr. Abdelahad Gamaluddin, President of Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies (ACPSS) Dr. Gamal Sultan and famous Egyptian journalist Ameena Shafiq . The event took place in the Ibrahim Nafei Hall, named after the renowned Egyptian journalist, at the Ahram main building in Cairo Downtown area. This symposium is part of IFES programming to provide a platform for Egyptian citizens to dialogue about electoral issues in Egypt.

IFES Presents the 2010 Manatt Democracy Awards

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 11:11:41 -0700

On September 28, 2010, IFES presented the 2010 Manatt Democracy Awards to Rep. David Obey (D-WI), Lebanon’s Minister of the Interior and Municipalities Ziyad Baroud, and former USAID Administrator Peter McPherson. The event was widely-attended by friends and supporters of the democracy movement.

IFES and Cairo University Host Event on Human Rights in Elections

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 07:18:06 -0700

On Sunday, August 29, 2010, IFES and the Faculty of Economics and Political Science (FEPS) at Cairo University hosted a workshop at the university featuring representatives of the National Council for Human Rights (NCHR). The aim of the session was to discuss the role of the National Council for Human Rights (NCHR) in the election process in Egypt. The main speakers were Dr. Ahmed Mohamed Refaat and Dr. Nabel Ahmed Helmy, members of the NCHR; and Nahla El Madany, a TV reporter and presenter. More than 40 people attended the lively discussion. The event was filmed by two local television crews and footage of the workshop appeared on the local news.

Commemorating Democracy Day

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 05:16:34 -0700

September 15, the International Day of Democracy, gives us an opportunity to reflect on what it means to vote and to partake in our country’s political affairs. It is also a good time to remember that for many around the world, the right to vote is hard fought and elusive.

This photo gallery consists of images from around the world that capture the spirit and struggle for democracy.