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Lithuania: Money and Politics Case Study
Lithuania has rapidly developed both politically and economically since emerging from the Soviet Union in 1991. While the country has built a functioning parliamentary system of government, has become a member of NATO, and is on the verge of joining the European Union, it still faces many problems associated with the many consolidating democracies around the world. As in all democracies, populations need to trust that those they elect will represent their interests. Problems such as corruption, weaknesses in laws concerning the political financing, and unaccounted for political income and expenditures threaten the credibility of the process and hinder the speed at which democracy is consolidated. Additionally, Lithuania lacks the high level of vibrant debate about the issue of political financing among scholars, journalists and civil society bodies required to promote meaningful reform. Recognizing this, Lithuania has developed an independent Central Electoral Committee (CEC) and adopted laws requiring detailed and public disclosure of political finance accounts. Prior to conducting Money and Politics programming in Lithuania, the CEC had made a demonstrable interest in making information public. While scanning summary report of accounts and placing them on the internet, the user could not search, not easily compare and analyze the information. Interested parties were required to make an appointment to view more detailed, paper-based information. Further, while the Tax Authorities are required to audit final political party reports, enforcement is widely considered to be weak. Few, if any, cases of political finance violations have been forwarded and investigated, not to mention prosecuted. By addressing the difficult issues surrounding political finance with the support of IFES in 2002 and 2003, Lithuania is emerging as a model for other consolidating democracy to follow. Significant areas remain to be addressed. While Lithuania has taken concrete steps to reform political finance legislation, open political finance information to public scrutiny and oversight, and encourage debate, further efforts are required to actively enforce laws and regulations and raise the level of debate among the various governmental, legislative, and civil society groups. By addressing these areas, Lithuania has the potential for being an example of best practices while making local expertise and resources to other countries undergoing similar reforms.
December 31, 2002
News & Updates
Interview/Speech/Testimony
Pride and Joy: Libya’s First Post-Gaddafi Election
On July 7, 2012, Libya held the first election since the end of Mu'amar Gaddafi's 42-year rule. Ian Smith, IFES chief of party in Libya, answers some questions on the historic election.
News & Updates
Feature
Libyans Vote in First Post-Gaddafi Election
On July 7, 2012, Libya took a major step on its path to democracy when it conducted elections for General National Congress, the body that is replacing the current unelected National Transitional Council. Despite dealing with a short timeframe to implement the poll and a challenging security environment, the event was considered a success. Election Day was a joyful occasion as citizens lined up to cast their ballots in the first poll since Mu'amar Gaddafi was deposed.
Publication
Survey
Focus Groups Capture Voters’ Perspectives on Libya's First Poll
On July 7, 2012, Libyans went to the polls and elected the General National Congress (GNC) in a major step that helped put their country on the path toward democracy.
March 21, 2013
Publication
Survey
IFES’ Survey on the Status of Women in Libya
Major decisions are being made that will impact Libya's future as a democratic nation. IFES' latest survey sheds light on Libyans' perceptions about women's roles and rights in public and private spheres.
September 18, 2013
Election FAQ
Elections in Libya: The February 20 Constituent Assembly Elections
On February 20, registered Libyans were scheduled to elect 60 members of the Libyan Constituent Assembly.
Election FAQ
Elections in Libya: June 25 Council of Representatives Elections
On June 25, Libyans return to the polls for the second time this year to elect 200 members to the Council of Representatives (CoR).
News & Updates
Press Release
IFES Condemns Assassination of Libyan Human Rights Leader Salwa Bugaighis
The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) is deeply saddened by the assassination of Libyan human rights lawyer and activist Salwa Bugaighis and strongly condemns this cowardly act of violence. We offer our condolences to her family and remember her dedication, commitment and ultimate sacrifice for women’s participation in the political process and equal rights in Libya.
News & Updates
Feature
Libyan Journalists Trained on Disability-Inclusive Reporting
From April 18-20, 2017, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) trained 17 Libyan journalists on inclusive media coverage of elections and political processes from a disability rights perspective.