The Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections (BRIDGE) program was recently awarded the 2010 United Nations Public Service Award in the category of "Improving the delivery of public services." The award commends creative achievements and contributions of public service institutions that lead to a more effective and responsive public administration in countries worldwide.

BRIDGE is a comprehensive professional development course that improves skills, knowledge, and confidence of election professionals and key stakeholders in the electoral process, including members of the media, political parties, and electoral observers.  IFES is one of five internationally recognized partner organizations implementing BRIDGE programs worldwide.

The letter of notification stated that:

I am pleased to congratulate your organization on winning the 2010 United Nations Public Service Award in the category of “Improving the delivery of public services” for “Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections”, as a first-place winner. Your institution’s outstanding achievement has demonstrated excellence in serving the public interest and I am sure it has made a significant contribution to the improvement of public administration in your country. It will be an inspiration and encouragement for others working for the public service.

The 2010 United Nations Public Service Award for "improving the delivery of public services" is a tremendous recognition of the contribution of the BRIDGE program to electoral democracy.