Spreading the News: The Role of Media in Transitioning Democracies

May 20, 2013

Traditional and social media play a critical role in transitioning democracies. These outlets empower citizens by providing information and a platform for expression. This podcast discusses the importance of media and its role in developing credible democratic institutions.

Media Relations

Pivotal Midterm Poll in the Philippines

May 09, 2013

The Philippines is holding midterm local and national elections on May 13. In this podcast, IFES Chief of Party in the Philippines Beverly Hagerdon Thakur talks about PCOS, what to expect on Election Day and what these polls mean for the 2016 presidential elections in the Philippines.

The Role of Media in Elections: A Cornerstone of Democracy

May 06, 2013

As World Press Freedom Day was celebrated around the world, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) hosted in a panel on the role of media in elections. Among the topics that were addressed are: international assistance in the training of local journalists on election coverage; the importance of media centers during elections; how a free press strengthens civil society; and the role of social media in disseminating information or serving as a listening tool.

Elections Through Her Eyes: Women's Empowerment, Inclusion and the Electoral Process

April 29, 2013

Countries around the world hold elections, some as nations in transition, and others as part of a longstanding democratic tradition. Regardless of context, the electoral process is exciting and critically important for all citizens. However, in many instances the experience is vastly different for men and women. Women often face additional hurdles related to structural barriers in election administration, violence and cultural norms. Watch a discussion on these issues.

Women's Empowerment, All Inclusion and Empowerment

Mitigating the Risks of Election Violence

April 17, 2013

Election violence can compromise the credibility of the electoral process, taking place as a reaction to a poll or as a continuation of preexisting grievances. To safeguard the integrity of elections, it is imperative to reduce the impact of such violence. This podcast features Rakesh Sharma, IFES’ Director for the Applied Research Center. In this interview, Sharma focuses on the risks of election violence and the technologies available to mitigate them. He also discusses new trends in election violence and how they affect women differently than men.

Two Years into the Arab Spring: Islam, Elections and Democratic Transformation

April 05, 2013

In the wake of the Arab Spring, the international community watched as popular Islamic political parties began to take shape. The history and diversity of Islamic political parties and the role Islam could play in the democratic transformation of the Arab World was often left out of the commentary. The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and the International Council for Middle East Studies (ICMES) hosted a discussion on the rise and trajectory of Islamist political parties after the Arab Spring. Panelists discuss the influence of Islamists on the development of the constitution and legal framework, and the role of Islam in the political evolution of the MENA region.

Empowering Women, Strengthening Society

March 21, 2013

Women continue to lack equal access, despite making up more than half of the world's population. This video shows women from every region of the globe sharing their thoughts on why it is important to strive for greater gender equality, and showcase the significant contributions women make when given a voice.

Women's Empowerment, All Inclusion and Empowerment

Egypt Public Service Announcement: Women, Egypt Is Your Home

March 21, 2013

IFES helped produce this public service announcement to encourage women to participate in the political process during the Shura Council elections. The video reminds women that Egypt is also their home, so they should care for their country the way they care for their homes--and one of the ways to do so is by voting.

Media Relations, All Election Management, All Citizen Participation

After Chávez: Public Opinion on Chavismo and Venezuela’s Future

March 19, 2013

After ruling Venezuela for 14 years, President Hugo Chávez’s death is leading many to wonder what comes next for the country. Will Chavismo prevail or is the population ready to move away from leftist, anti-American rule? How is the political opposition viewed by the public? And is the country ready to hold elections in 30 days as dictated by law? And is the country ready to hold elections in 30 days as dictated by law? Listen to a conversation on these issues and more. The experts will examine data from a January survey conducted in Venezuela.

All Citizen Participation

Progress, Challenges and Hopes for Women's Empowerment

March 07, 2013

In celebration of International Women's Day, IFES Senior Gender Specialist Jessica Huber discusses her career, the progress she has witnessed in achieving gender equality and the challenges that remain. Huber also shares stories from her 16 years working to give women a voice worldwide.

Women's Empowerment, All Inclusion and Empowerment