About Us

IFES advances democracy for a better future.

About IFES

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Democracy is about people. The work of building resilient democracy is about people, too.
OUR vision

OUR vision

A world where people are free, societies are democratic, and elections are fair.

OUR mission

OUR mission

Together we build resilient democracies that deliver for all.

At IFES, we envision a world where people are free, societies are democratic, and elections are fair. We collaborate with civil society, public institutions, and the private sector to build resilient democracies that deliver for everyone. As a global leader in the promotion and protection of democracy, our technical assistance and applied research develop trusted electoral bodies capable of conducting credible elections; effective and accountable governing stakeholders; civic and political processes in which all people can safely and equally participate; and innovative ways in which technology and data can positively serve elections and democracy. Since 1987, IFES has worked in more than 145 countries, from developing to mature democracies. IFES is a global, nonpartisan organization based in Arlington, Virginia, USA, and registered as a nonprofit organization [501(c)(3)] under the United States tax code.

Strategic Outcomes

Credible Elections

Electoral stakeholders deliver elections that are inclusive and produce trusted results.
 

Accountable Governance

Governing institutions are effective, transparent, and responsive to the public.
 

Inclusive Societies

All people can meaningfully participate in political and public life on an equal basis.
 

Digital Democracy

Technology, data, AI, and the internet positively serve elections and democracies.
 

Democratic Cultures

An informed public is actively engaged in fostering democratic culture and values.
 

Values

We believe in the power of people.

We develop individual, institutional and collaborative capacities to strengthen democracy.

We pursue excellence and innovation.

We learn and adapt to best serve the people and principles we support.

We embody diversity, equality and opportunity.

We build inclusive relationships based on trust and mutual respect.

Culture Statement

We are here to advance democracy’s promise. Every day, we choose the path that furthers our mission and exemplifies our values. We apply thoughtful, rigorous solutions to complex problems. We take informed risks and view setbacks as opportunities for reflection and growth. Our people drive IFES and prize inclusion, trust and accountability. We conduct our work with integrity. We are IFES.

Public Sector Donors

Principles that Guide IFES Programming

We actively advance locally led development.

We seek to drive lasting impact by bringing like-minded organizations together and taking an intersectional approach to our work.

We systematically use data to drive the design and implementation of our programs.

We generate evidence and approaches that influence norms, policies and practice in the democracy sector.

We prioritize the safety and wellbeing of our staff, partners and the communities in which we work.

View IFES's Financial Statements and Form 990s here