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News & Updates
Feature
Nigeria’s 2015 Elections: A Critical Vote for Democracy in Africa
On March 28, Nigerians went to the polls and voted decisively for change. Opposition candidate Muhammadu Buhari won approximately 52 percent of the vote to defeat incumbent President Goodluck Jonathon, who collected 44 percent. Across the country, the conduct of the vote took place in a civil atmosphere, largely undisturbed by violence. Goodluck Jonathon graciously conceded defeat and congratulated Buhari on his victory, a move which was welcomed by the heads of international observer missions. Although there were some reported problems, these elections were a positive harbinger for democracy in Nigeria and Africa at large.
News & Updates
Feature
IFES and INEC Partner to Build Trust in Nigeria’s Elections
Since 1999, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) has been engaged with the Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in a remarkable partnership. In many countries, IFES provides an array of technical assistance – from long-term strategic planning years ahead of an election down to poll worker training in the immediate lead up to a vote.
News & Updates
Feature
IFES President Sweeney Testifies on Capitol Hill on Election Support in Africa
On March 18, 2015, International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) President and CEO Bill Sweeney provided testimony to the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations on “U.S. Election Support in Africa.” IFES was invited to discuss the implementation of effective electoral assistance in Africa, and to provide recommendations for improving future aid.
News & Updates
Feature
Timid Support in Nigeria for Women in Politics
A recent opinion survey in Nigeria conducted by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) reveals a sharp divide between men and women on attitudes towards women’s representation in high political positions.
News & Updates
Feature
Liberians Vote in Delayed Special Senate Elections
Originally slated for October 14, 2014, Liberia's special senatorial elections were moved to December 20 due to the Ebola outbreak. Amid this public health crisis, Liberians headed to the polls to elect half of the country's 30-member Senate. With the State of Emergency imposed by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf expiring in November, the conduct of this election was an important marker of the progress made in the fight against Ebola. Four different teams from the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) deployed to the counties of Montserrado, Bomi, Margibi and Grand Bassa in central Liberia to witness the vote.
News & Updates
Interview/Speech/Testimony
IFES Q&A with Former Senior Program Manager Laurie Cooper
A former Senior Program Manager at the International Foundation for Electoral Systems, Laurie Cooper specializes in conflict resolution and the rule of law. Most recently, she was Chief of Party for the Liberia Land Conflict Resolution Project. In this post, she discusses her time at IFES, the Ebola crisis in Liberia and positive trends for sustainable democracy.
News & Updates
Feature
IFES Presents the Baxter Award to Dr. Christiana Thorpe
On November 3, 2014 the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) presented the 2014 Joe C. Baxter Award to Dr. Christiana Thorpe, Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) of Sierra Leone.
News & Updates
Feature
IFES’ 2014 U.S. Election Program
For almost three decades, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) has supported citizens’ rights to participate in free and fair elections around the globe. Since 1992, IFES has hosted a flagship event, the U.S. Election Program, which brings together election officials, parliamentarians and diplomats from around the world to observe and learn about the U.S. electoral system as well as discuss elections and voting from comparative international perspectives.
This year’s program was held from November 2-5, in Washington, D.C., and provided a range of educational and networking opportunities for executives responsible for elections and voting.
See coverage of select panels by C-SPAN.
This year’s program was held from November 2-5, in Washington, D.C., and provided a range of educational and networking opportunities for executives responsible for elections and voting.
See coverage of select panels by C-SPAN.
News & Updates
Feature
Nigeria: All eyes on 2015
With the approach of national elections in February 2015, there is increased interest in the Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) preparations for the polls. The Adamawa gubernatorial election, which had been scheduled for October 11, was cancelled just days before it was scheduled to be held, following a decision by the country’s Federal High Court. Unfortunately, this development has removed an opportunity to test Nigeria’s preparations for the security challenges that will be faced during the general election in 2015, as Adamawa is one of three northern states that are currently under emergency rule and have borne the brunt of attacks by the terrorist group Boko Haram.
News & Updates
Feature
Ebola in Liberia: Its Effect on Governance and Democracy
Ebola’s destructive path in West Africa has not only displaced communities and people but has exacerbated the strain facing already weak institutions and governance. The International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX) hosted panel discussion on the key structural and governance issues that have been underscored by the current Ebola crisis in Liberia. The panelist provided keen insights into the complex and evolving situation. IFES Senior Program Manager for Africa Matthew Parry spoke about the challenges facing the pending elections and the role civil society can play to increase awareness about Ebola.