The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) has opened a Global Consultation on Protecting Elections in Stockholm, Sweden, bringing together stakeholders from across the world to strengthen electoral integrity and address emerging threats to democratic processes.
Opening the consultation, International IDEA Secretary-General Kevin Casas-Zamora called for coordinated and forward-looking action to respond to rapidly evolving threats facing elections globally.
He stressed the need for collaboration across election management, security, gender equality and inclusion, as well as civil society, to ensure elections remain credible, inclusive and resilient.
Mr Casas-Zamora also expressed appreciation to France and Canada for their financial support and contributions to the Protecting Elections Project, noting that their backing has been foundational to the initiative since 2023.
At the opening session, France’s Ambassador Thierry Carlier and Laurent-Gabriel Côté-Fournier of Global Affairs Canada reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to electoral integrity and international cooperation in addressing the complex risks, threats and crises confronting elections.
The two-day consultation brings together electoral management bodies, electoral networks, civil society organisations, donors and electoral assistance providers to share experiences, examine emerging challenges and identify practical approaches to protecting elections.
Participants are also expected to explore ways to strengthen collaboration and expand the use of the Integrated Framework for Protecting Elections, which provides an approach to addressing the diverse risks that can undermine electoral processes.
The consultation seeks to build a stronger global community of practice committed to safeguarding elections and democratic institutions through collective action, knowledge-sharing and international partnerships.
The meeting comes amid growing international attention to the need for comprehensive approaches to election protection, including measures that address security concerns, promote gender equality and inclusion, and strengthen the participation of civil society in democratic processes.
Through the exchange of experiences and perspectives, the consultation aims to advance cooperation among national and international stakeholders in protecting electoral integrity and reinforcing public confidence in democratic governance.
