Civil and Voter Registries: Lessons Learned from Global Experiences

Although successful elections are possible without registering voters, a registration process and the production of a voter register has many significant advantages. Two major advantages are an increase in transparency of the electoral process and facilitating an appeals process for a voter who is denied inclusion.  

To guide electoral management bodies (EMBs) through the implementation and reform of civil and voter registries, IFES has published Civil and Voter Registries: Lessons Learned from Global Experiences.

Edited by Michael Yard, this study examines three categories of civil and voter registries through the dual lenses of local culture and globally accepted principles:

1. First time registration
2. Strengthening existing registration with new technology
3. Using a continuous registration system or a civil register

Case studies on Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq, Guyana, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Georgia, and Canada are presented to better illustrate the myriad of issues EMBs must address. The study concludes with a summary of recommendations culled from varying experiences around the world.

About the editor: Michael Yard is a recognized international election administration and technology expert with over 25 years of experience. He has advised election authorities in over 15 countries.