NDI - Elections

Civic Network OPORA Local Election Monitoring Highlights

rrunyan — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 18:16:41 +0000

Author:

OPORA

Publisher:

OPORA

Published Date:

10/15/2010

Resource Type:

Report

Language:

English

Media Type:

PDF

English

Attachment	Size
OPORA_Ukraine_civic_network_report.pdf	115.59 KB

In Jordan, Al-Hayat Addresses Youth Apathy in Political Process

fgalleto — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 14:24:40 +0000

To encourage young Jordanians to participate in politics, the Al-Hayat Center for Civil Society Development has launched a campaign focused on engaging and registering young voters for Nov. 9 parliamentary elections. The campaign is based in part on the findings of a survey conducted by Al-Hayat, in partnership with NDI, designed to uncover young people's attitudes toward political involvement and specifically their experiences in the previous election in 2007.

More than 65 percent of Jordanians are under the age of 30, and 43 percent of potential voters are 18 to 25. Those demographics carry the potential for accelerated political reform, provided the country's young people, who have historically been excluded from the political process, decide to make their voices heard.

The survey sampled 2,100 Jordanians between the ages of 18 and 30 from the country's 12 governorates. The participants also represented a cross section of education levels, marital statuses, professional sectors and sexes. The survey asked questions about difficulties encountered at polling stations, efficacy of campaign literature and advertisements, and respondents' overall confidence in the role of parliament. It also asked the young people to estimate their anticipated level of participation in the upcoming elections.

jordanelection.com

The results of Al-Hayat's survey are available publicly through a user-friendly website, www.jordanelection.com, where activists, researchers, candidates and policymakers can track trends in specific youth subgroups, particularly first-time voters. For instance, the survey showed that young people strongly support domestic election monitoring, which is useful information for activists pressing the government to allow civil society organizations to observe the election process.

To help visualize results and make better connections across regions, the findings are displayed on a colorful interactive map divided into national, regional and governorate levels. The data can also be explored by gender, age and education level, giving the user detailed demographic information. The website's simple design combined with its in-depth presentation of the survey data is a powerful tool for designing a variety of election-related youth programs.

The results revealed a number of concerns over previous elections and how future polls will be conducted. For example, participants said that during the 2007 elections they faced overcrowded polling centers and witnessed vote-buying and other violations. For this year's elections, respondents expressed a continued lack of confidence in parliament and said they do not have information on how Jordan's recently-amended electoral law might affect procedures for the November polls.

Using the survey results, Al-Hayat tailored its campaign to address those issues of particular concern in hopes that it would encourage young people to participate. In cooperation with local authorities and civil society organizations Al-Hayat has been holding roundtables where its staff and volunteers engage directly with young Jordanians, answering questions about registration and the new electoral law and encouraging youth to participate in the political process. More than 800 young people have participated in these events so far, and Al-Hayat will hold them throughout the summer.

Al-Hayat has also created a series of posters and videos promoting the importance of youth participation, and encouraging young voters to register and research candidate platforms before voting. These videos are listed as "most viewed" on the increasingly popular Jordanian website 3alarasi, which carries short videos and caricatures on current social and political matters.

Related:

Pictured above: One of three posters produced for Al-Hayat's voter participation campaign. The Arabic reads: "'Shall I participate... Shall I not participate...' Building a prosperous future does not depend on luck; build your own future and participate in the parliamentary elections. Participate."

Published on August 19, 2010

Notes from Benghazi: Local Elections

fgalleto — Fri, 25 May 2012 15:04:14 +0000

Libyan voters went to the polls in Benghazi May 19 to elect members of the city’s local council. It was the first election held there in more than four decades. Though NDI did not field an international observation mission, Megan Doherty, NDI resident senior program officer in Libya, was accredited to observe the vote. Here she shares her informal observations of the voting process.

Women wait to vote in Benghazi. Photo by Megan Doherty.

Voters turned out in ample numbers in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi to elect 41 members to the city’s local council. According to local election authorities, 441 candidates stood for election. While there were no reliable estimates of the size of Benghazi’s voting population, 200,000 citizens reportedly registered.

Local authorities declared a public holiday to encourage citizens to vote. At midday and afternoon prayers, imams in local mosques also urged people to participate in the polls and to vote their conscience. Security forces were deployed throughout the city and in front of polling stations to maintain order.

The vote followed a two-week campaign that saw candidates using posters, leaflets and, to a lesser extent, in-person gatherings to court voters. Some candidates complained that despite the two-week campaign period, the Benghazi local election commission did not share official candidate and campaign regulations until one week before election day.

With Elections in Sight, Libyans Concerned About Security, Country's Direction

As the political transition proceeds in Libya, leaders continue to struggle to meet public expectations on key issues such as security, political reform and standard of living, according to a new public opinion study by NDI.

From April 10 - 20, the Institute examined citizens' opinions through 12 focus groups in six cities across Libya. The research took place two months before anticipated elections for a national public congress, which will be tasked with overseeing the drafting of a new constitution. Libyans view the approaching elections with great enthusiasm.

Read more about the findings»

Read the full focus group report»

Election observers from civil society organizations and candidate representatives monitored polling throughout the city. One local observer told visiting NDI representatives that, “This is new to us. People come here and they don’t know how to vote and they ask me what to do and even who to vote for. I tell them I can’t help them make that choice; they have to do it on their own.” Some observers seemed unsure of their role, in some cases interfering in the polls. In one polling station, visiting NDI representatives saw an observer conferring with polling station officials over whether to discount a ballot on which someone had circled the name of his preferred candidate instead of marking the box next to the candidate’s name.

Some polling stations opened as late as two hours after the 8 a.m. scheduled start time due to the delayed arrival of ballot boxes and materials. In several of these stations, NDI staff noted that voters waited patiently and did not let logistical delays dampen the excitement of voting. At one polling station, a truck carrying ballot boxes arrived at 9:45 a.m. to cries of “Allahu Akbar! [God is great!]” from the gathered crowd. At a 2:30 p.m. press conference, the head of the local election commission acknowledged the late start in polling stations in three of 11 districts but described the election as a learning experience that would help Libyans better prepare for national elections later this year.

There was considerable enthusiasm among both voters and poll workers, many of whom were young Libyan men and women. One polling station official told visiting NDI representatives, “I have been crying since this morning—crying for joy. I never thought we could do something like this, but here we are doing it. We are so proud today.” Another polling station official had gone out of her way to decorate the polling station in the black, red and green of Libya’s new flag, hanging balloons, ribbons and pendants across the room. “Some people may be nervous, since this is our first time to vote,” she explained, “I want them to feel comfortable and welcome.”

By most accounts, the day proceeded relatively smoothly. Polling centers appeared orderly and well-managed. However, anecdotal evidence that NDI collected from visits to polling stations, as well as experiences shared by NDI staff and partners, did point to a number of inconsistencies in election administration. Although these may not be have been pervasive or systematic, they provide an indication of the kinds of operational considerations that should be addressed and clarified for the upcoming national elections, as well as for the constitutional referendum and legislative elections that are anticipated within the next two years.

For example, despite signage in polling stations banning cellphones and cameras, voters and poll workers alike used them openly. There were differences in where and when poll workers checked the identification of voters; in some instances people without proper identification or accreditation were allowed to enter polling stations. In some instances, the polling booths were placed in front of doors or windows, allowing passersby to see the ballot being marked by voters. In some stations, voters in separate booths spoke openly to each other while voting. There was also confusion over whether poll workers and election officials were allowed to vote. Several poll workers told NDI that despite being advised previously that they would not be able to vote, on arrival at their polling stations they were notified that they could cast their ballots – posing a dilemma for those assigned to stations in different neighborhoods from where they had registered.

Voters appeared satisfied with the experience, proudly waving ink-stained fingers outside of polling stations. Other reactions were more somber. One voter told NDI representatives, “I’m thinking of the friends I lost in the revolution who couldn’t be here today. They gave their lives for this.”

Despite the visible enthusiasm for the polls, there appeared to be some confusion among voters about the role of the elections. Some voters were not clear on the job of the local council, with some believing incorrectly that the winners of the Benghazi vote would automatically become candidates for the national elections in June. One voter told visiting NDI representatives that “this election is about us telling the NTC [National Transition Council] we don’t need them to tell us what to do.” Other voters seemed to view these elections as a demonstration of pride in the city that launched the revolution – and as preparation for the national elections next month – rather than as a poll designed to elect a local council accountable to the city’s voters. All told, however, enthusiasm and pride were on display, showing how citizens felt empowered through the act of voting.

Related:

Published May 25, 2012

Public Hearing on Ukraine's Upcoming Elections: A Pivotal Moment

mglauberman — Fri, 25 May 2012 13:45:05 +0000

Source:

NDI Katie Fox

Article Link:

Published Date:

05/17/2012

Testifying before the Helsinki Commission, Katie Fox, deputy director for Eurasia programs at NDI, urged the international community to use both words and actions to “guard against the erosion of democratic rights in Ukraine.” With elections still several months away, the Ukrainian government maintains that it will hold a fully, democratic election that will show the ability to balance a centralized government with democratic values. Meanwhile, observers have noted a “general deterioration of political pluralism in Ukraine.” Specifically, the ruling party has assumed control over most institutions and governments, Ukraine’s Constitutional Court has invalidated portions of the parliamentary election law, and popular opposition leader and former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has been imprisoned.

To restore credibility in the upcoming election, Ukrainians and elections observers must focus on ensuring the following: government impartiality in the administration of the elections; a campaign environment in which “candidates, campaign activists and observers can operate free of harassment and intimidation;” transparent formation of precinct electoral commissions; adherence to the legal framework for elections; and, “a post-election environment free from pressure or incentives to induce deputies to switch allegiance.”

Commune Election Debate Puts Focus on the Future

mglauberman — Fri, 25 May 2012 13:26:50 +0000

Source:

The Phnom Penh Post

Article Link:

Published Date:

05/23/2012

The National Democratic Institute organized a debate between Cambodia’s candidates in the Kandal province, which indicated that voters are “more interested in action and the betterment of their future.” More than 2,500 voters attended the debates, in which their questions about policy and leadership were answered. NDI has been working on the upcoming commune election and has trained about 100 candidates since January in techniques for electoral debates. “It kind of amazes me, the patience an interest of people here,” said NDI Country Director Laura Thornton.

Why Libya Matters

mglauberman — Fri, 25 May 2012 13:19:53 +0000

Source:

Foreign Policy

Article Link:

Published Date:

05/22/2012

Giulio Terzi writes about why Libya’s stability is in the interest of the entire international community and outlines the challenges in establishing a sustainable, democratic system. He argues that only through democratic governance can the demands and needs of the Libyan people be met. A stable Libya could also be a “positive agent for regional cooperation and integration.” Libya has already normalized and improved relations with its neighbors including Egypt, Tunisia and, recently Algeria. Terzi points out that “a democratic Libya, closely anchored to international Euro-Atlantic institutions, could become an important partner in the common fight against international terrorism, piracy, and the spread of weapons of mass destruction.” Describing Libya as a “special case” because it’s oil rich, scarcely populated, and does not present immediate proclivity towards Islamic radicalism, he outlines the major challenges for Libya’s democratic transition, including holding elections and keeping the population secure. To tackle these challenges, Terzi calls on the international community to strengthen border security, invest in training and education programs for the country’s youth, and “integrate the new democratic Libya more closely with Euro-Atlantic institutions.”

Libya’s Path Ahead is Unclear as Elections Loom

fgalleto — Thu, 24 May 2012 21:19:56 +0000

Source:

Washington Post

Article Link:

Published Date:

05/22/2012

Writing in the Washington Post, Anne Applebaum reports on Libya’s stability as they near the June elections. Applebaum describes the dangers in Janzour, the former Libyan Naval Academy that is now home to more than 2,000 refugees displaced by the Libyan revolution. A few of these refugees, from the town of Tawergha, joined the regime’s soldiers last summer and are now fearful of retaliation and attack by the anti-Gaddafi opposition known as the Misrata militia. The Misrata militia has threatened to murder any Tawerghans who return to their town and have legitimized their threats through bombarding people’s homes. Applebaum describes that the Tawerghans, like so many other issues in Libya, remains overlooked and unsolved under the Transitional National Council and provisional government.

And, while many are looking to the June elections for solutions to these critical problems, Applebaum argues that the power vacuum has lent itself to some positive developments, particularly the emergence of a civil society. In fact, with the help of a brand new charity, the Libyan Housing Authority, journalists are gaining more access to Janzour, giving a necessary voice to the refugees and those fearful of violence by Misrata militia.

Ukraine's Upcoming Elections: A Pivotal Moment

fgalleto — Wed, 23 May 2012 18:54:26 +0000

Author:

Katie Fox

Publisher:

National Democratic Institute

Published Date:

05/17/2012

Resource Type:

Testimony

Language:

English

Attachment	Size
Read the testimony	147.53 KB

With Elections in Sight, Libyans Concerned about Security, Country's Direction

fgalleto — Tue, 22 May 2012 18:49:36 +0000

From April 10-20, the Institute examined citizens’ opinions through 12 focus groups in six cities across Libya. The research took place two months before anticipated elections for a national public congress (NPC), which will be tasked with overseeing the drafting of a new constitution. Libyans view the approaching elections with great enthusiasm.

Young Libyans in Benghazi celebrate Liberation Day. Photo by Megan Doherty.

NDI’s research was designed to capture citizen sentiments about the political landscape and expectations for the next phase of Libya’s transition. Here are some key findings:

In general, Libyans are concerned that the goals of the 2011 revolution have not yet been realized and that progress is too slow. The most commonly cited areas of apprehension relate to security and the complicated, opaque political environment. Some respondents cite reasons for optimism, such as the flourishing of civil society, new freedoms and small improvements in local security.
Libyans are enthusiastic to participate in elections for the first time, seeing voting as a fundamental right and a vital act of self-expression. Awareness of the upcoming elections, however, is low, and may, with other barriers such as security, dampen voter turnout. Citizens want more information about the electoral process and political contestants.
Opinions about political parties have improved considerably compared to a prior study conducted by NDI in November 2011. Though still hampered by decades of negative propaganda during the reign of ousted leader Muammar Gaddafi, political parties are beginning to convince citizens of their positive contributions to the transition.
Support remains consistent for moderate Islamic principles in the political sphere; most Libyans want and expect Islam to play a role in political life. They struggle to define a cohesive picture of moderate Islam, but often point to tolerance over extremism as a core principle.
Citizens expect to play a role in the constitution-drafting process, which will be led by the elected NPC. Expectations of the NPC are inflated, in part due to misunderstanding of the body’s projected roles and functions. Some respondents anticipate that the NPC will address issues like security, infrastructure and health, while in fact its mandate may be limited to overseeing constitution-drafting.
Widespread criticism of the National Transitional Council (NTC) and transitional national government (TNG) reflect the challenges these institutions face in addressing the public’s expectations and communicating with citizens. Libyans harbor concerns about the transitional government’s ineffectiveness, lack of transparency and susceptibility to corruption.

NDI relies on these findings to provide Libyan decision makers—in political parties, civil society organizations and the transitional government—with timely, relevant information on public opinion that can inform policies and make them more responsive to citizens’ interests and needs. The results of this study can be evaluated in comparison with the November 2011 qualitative public opinion research conducted by NDI in Libya.

Production of this report was made possible through funding from the State Department’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI).

Related:

Published May 22, 2012

Building a New Libya: Citizen Views on Libya's Electoral and Political Processes

fgalleto — Tue, 22 May 2012 18:32:17 +0000

Author:

Megan Doherty

Publisher:

National Democratic Institute

Published Date:

05/22/2012

Resource Type:

Focus Group Report

Language:

English

Attachment	Size
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Catalogue of Recommendations to Improve the Nigerian Electoral Process

fgalleto — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:34:49 +0000

Author:

National Democratic Institute

Publisher:

National Democratic Institute

Published Date:

09/14/2011

Resource Type:

Report

Language:

English

Attachment	Size
Read the catalogue	414.95 KB

Nigeria 2011: Post-Election Multilogue

fgalleto — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:32:29 +0000

Author:

National Democratic Institute

Publisher:

National Democratic Institute

Published Date:

09/14/2011

Resource Type:

Report

Language:

English

Attachment	Size
Read the report	1.13 MB

Institute Feels Kenya is Ready For General Election

fgalleto — Tue, 08 May 2012 23:10:45 +0000

Source:

NTV

Article Link:

Published Date:

05/05/2012

A report by a delegation that has been studying Kenya’s situation, finds that "remarkable progress" in Kenya's preparation for upcoming elections. However, it warns that the politicization of the ICC process remains a risk to peaceful elections. The delegation held 25 meetings with government representatives, the independent electoral and Boundaries Commission, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, political parties, civil society and religious groups. The delegation says full implementation of the constitution remains key to ensuring lasting peace. The group makes 44 recommendations that it says if implemented, will midwife peaceful elections.

Watch the interview with former President Quett Ketumile Masire, head of the NDI delegation, and Patrick Merloe, NDI director of elections programs»

Statement of the National Democratic Institute Pre-Election Delegation to Kenya

fgalleto — Sun, 06 May 2012 19:22:46 +0000

Author:

National Democratic Institute

Publisher:

National Democratic Institute

Published Date:

05/05/2012

Resource Type:

Statement

Language:

English

Attachment	Size
Read the statement	377.61 KB

NDI Pre-Election Delegation Finds "Remarkable Progress" in Kenya Election Framework

fgalleto — Sun, 06 May 2012 19:19:01 +0000

Immediate and Concerted Efforts Needed to Prevent Violence, Remove Uncertainties

Remarkable progress has been accomplished in reforming the framework for Kenya’s elections, an NDI delegation found during a pre-election assessment mission. Nevertheless, immediate and concerted efforts are needed to prevent political violence and to remove uncertainties in the electoral environment that could threaten the integrity of elections.

Ayo Obe speaks at the delegation's press conference announcing its findings, with President Quett Ketumile Masire.

Immediate and Concerted Efforts Needed to Prevent Violence, Remove Uncertainties

The delegation included former President of Botswana H.E. Quett Ketumile Masire; Chairperson of the National Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone Dr. Christiana Thorpe; U.S. and global human rights advocate Martin Luther King, III; Nigerian Legal Practitioner and civil liberties advocate Ayo Obe; NDI Senior Associate and Director of Electoral Programs Patrick Merloe; and NDI Senior Associate and Director for Southern and East Africa Dr. Keith Jennings. The delegation visited Nairobi April 29 - May 5.

The mission’s purposes were to consider the state of electoral preparedness, review the broader political environment, examine factors that could affect the credibility of the electoral process and offer recommendations to support increased dialogue and consensus building towards peaceful, credible elections.

The delegation held 25 meetings with representatives of the government of Kenya, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, political parties, civil society and religious groups. Based on its meetings, the delegation offered 44 recommendations that would remove uncertainties that can impair fair elections and undermine public confidence.

Read the full statement»

Watch an interview with Patrick Merloe, NDI's director of election programs»

Related:

Published May 6, 2012