V S Sampeth, a member of India’s election commission, visited IFES while on a trip to the United States. He met with IFES President and CEO Bill Sweeney, National Democratic Institute President Ken Wollack, and International Republican Institute Executive Vice President Judy Van Rest. Also in attendance was Federal Election Commission Commissioner Ellen Weintraub. 

The purpose of the meeting was to present a clear picture of what the three democracy promotion organizations—IFES, NDI and IRI—do. The representatives of each organization spoke about their missions and areas of expertise.  

Sweeney said India is a shining example to democracies around the world, both emerging and established, especially those with great and diverse populations. He said much could be learned about the success India has had over the past 60 years. He added that one of the most admirable characteristics of the Indian election commission is that it retains its independence and integrity.  

Sampeth said there isn’t a single democracy around the world that would not profit from learning about others’ successes. He mentioned that creating a repository of best  practices would be very beneficial for all countries. Sweeney, Wollack and Van Rest all agreed.  

The rest of the meeting was devoted to exchanging thoughts and ideas on currently high-profile election topics, such as technology in elections.

Sweeney will meet with Sampeth again in January 2011, when he travels to New Delhi for the Electoral Commission’s concluding Diamond Jubilee Celebrations.