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MoU with Mexico’s TEPJF Enhances Electoral Integrity Efforts

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On December 12, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and the Electoral Tribunal of the Federal Judicial Branch (TEPJF) of Mexico signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at IFES headquarters. This signing further substantiates a longstanding relationship between IFES and the TEPJF and is a reflection of both organizations’ shared commitment to electoral justice and electoral integrity.

Collaboration between the Tribunal and IFES will focus on the development of research, implementation of programs, and transmission of knowledge in mutual priority areas including open justice, strengthening access to case law on electoral justice, model rules of professional conduct for election adjudicators and other areas of common interest. The two organizations will continue working together to ensure that a Global Network on Electoral Justice, spearheaded by the Tribunal and IFES’ efforts to advance regional electoral jurisprudence networks, are complimentary and mutually-reinforcing communities of practice supporting effective electoral dispute resolution (EDR).

[caption caption="Representatives of IFES and the Tribunal" align="right"]
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“The Tribunal’s EDR architecture demonstrates the value of a professional judiciary trained in the adjudication of electoral disputes and supported by a clear legal framework. Their work is an example around the world and IFES looks forward to the great mutual benefit our continuing collaboration promises,” said IFES President and CEO Bill Sweeney.

The signing of the MoU comes at a time when elections face new challenges around the world, and Mexico in particular has demanding year ahead with elections for president, Senate and representatives, some governors and some local positions slated to happen concurrently for the first time in July of 2018.“The Tribunal’s EDR architecture demonstrates the value of a professional judiciary trained in the adjudication of electoral disputes and supported by a clear legal framework. Their work is an example around the world and IFES looks forward to the great mutual benefit our continuing collaboration promises,” said IFES President and CEO Bill Sweeney.

During Justice Vargas’ visit to Washington, IFES also organized a Capitol Hill roundtable on "Tackling Emerging Global Challenges in Mexico’s 2018 Elections: Cybersecurity, Disillusionment and Disinformation," sponsored by the office of Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35). Details of the event can be found here.