EU Partners with IFES to Advance and Safeguard Ukraine’s Democracy

The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) is pleased to announce the launch of a new initiative funded by the European Union to reinforce Ukraine’s democratic resilience and support the country’s progress toward EU integration. The “Building Electoral Preparedness and Resilience Together” (BEPART) project, implemented by IFES in close cooperation with Ukraine’s Central Election Commission (CEC), is designed to enhance Ukraine’s preparedness for inclusive, transparent, and secure post-war democratic processes, guided by European standards. Importantly, the project advances the priorities outlined in Ukraine’s Roadmap on the Functioning of Democratic Institutions (FDI Roadmap), which guides the development, adoption, and implementation of reforms aimed at aligning Ukraine’s democratic institutions and electoral processes with EU standards. 

Through this project, IFES will engage election management bodies, lawmakers, civil society organizations, and underrepresented communities, including veterans, persons with disabilities, internally displaced persons, as well as youth and first-time voters. BEPART will support research and the development of legal and policy reforms, facilitate stakeholder consultations, and provide technical assistance to the CEC as it advances the FDI Roadmap. The project also includes capacity-building trainings for national and local election officials, infrastructure improvements to enhance accessibility within the CEC, and opportunities for international exchanges and peer learning. In addition, the initiative will promote civic engagement through workshops, discussions, and educational activities for young people.

Through this comprehensive approach, the EU-supported BEPART project strengthens Ukraine’s democratic institutions, broadens civic participation, and contributes to the country’s long-term democratic resilience as it moves closer to EU membership. This project is part of the EU’s broader efforts to advance peace, prosperity, and democracy in Ukraine. It will be implemented from October 2025 through January 2027 with a budget of EUR 1,050,900.

“IFES has stood with and supported the people of Ukraine before and throughout Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion,” said Anthony Banbury, IFES President and CEO. “We will continue to stand with Ukraine as the country advances on its democratic and European path — the direction towards which Ukrainians have consistently demonstrated their firm commitment. Ukraine’s strength and resilience in defending democratic values continue to inspire the world. Through the BEPART project, IFES is honored to work alongside the European Union and the Central Election Commission to support inclusive, transparent, and credible democratic processes that reflect the will of the Ukrainian people. We are unwavering in our commitment to contributing to a free, whole, and democratic Ukraine.”