Securing the Vote Beyond Borders

Join IFES for the launch of a timely new report on one of the most complex frontiers in election administration: out-of-country voting.

“Securing the Vote Beyond Borders: Key Considerations for Organizing Out-of-Country Voting” is the new IFES report that brings together the latest insights on how democracies are expanding access for citizens abroad—while safeguarding the integrity of the vote.

This discussion will be led by lead authors Dr. Staffan Darnolf and Anna Denis, and will feature a distinguished panel of practitioners at the forefront of electoral innovation:

• Angelica Caraman, Chairperson, Central Electoral Commission of the Republic of Moldova
• Brigadier General Dr. Saleem Ahmad Khan (Ret.), Team Leader, OCV System Development & Implementation Project, Bangladesh Election Commission
• Anna Nyqvist, Chief Executive, Swedish Election Authority

Together, they will explore how election management bodies are navigating the operational, technological, and security challenges of administering elections beyond national borders.

Why this matters

Out-of-country voting (OCV) is rapidly expanding. As of 2025, 119 of 182 countries and territories provide some form of voting access for citizens abroad—and more are moving in that direction. Reforms are accelerating, from online voter registration to new voting modalities, driven by both demand and technological change.

But with expansion comes complexity and unintended consequences.

From AI-driven information risks to evolving electoral technologies, OCV now sits at the intersection of access, security, and trust. This new IFES report examines these dynamics in detail—offering practical guidance on implementation, risk management, and safeguarding electoral integrity across borders.

What you’ll gain

• A clear view of global trends shaping out-of-country voting
• Insights from leaders implementing OCV in diverse contexts
• Practical recommendations for election management bodies navigating new risks and opportunities