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News & Updates
Feature
Liberians Vote in Delayed Special Senate Elections
Originally slated for October 14, 2014, Liberia's special senatorial elections were moved to December 20 due to the Ebola outbreak. Amid this public health crisis, Liberians headed to the polls to elect half of the country's 30-member Senate. With the State of Emergency imposed by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf expiring in November, the conduct of this election was an important marker of the progress made in the fight against Ebola. Four different teams from the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) deployed to the counties of Montserrado, Bomi, Margibi and Grand Bassa in central Liberia to witness the vote.
News & Updates
Interview/Speech/Testimony
IFES Q&A with Former Senior Program Manager Laurie Cooper
A former Senior Program Manager at the International Foundation for Electoral Systems, Laurie Cooper specializes in conflict resolution and the rule of law. Most recently, she was Chief of Party for the Liberia Land Conflict Resolution Project. In this post, she discusses her time at IFES, the Ebola crisis in Liberia and positive trends for sustainable democracy.
News & Updates
Feature
Ebola in Liberia: Its Effect on Governance and Democracy
Ebola’s destructive path in West Africa has not only displaced communities and people but has exacerbated the strain facing already weak institutions and governance. The International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX) hosted panel discussion on the key structural and governance issues that have been underscored by the current Ebola crisis in Liberia. The panelist provided keen insights into the complex and evolving situation. IFES Senior Program Manager for Africa Matthew Parry spoke about the challenges facing the pending elections and the role civil society can play to increase awareness about Ebola.
News & Updates
Press Release
Health Crisis in West Africa Erodes Peace and Democratization Efforts
The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) is deeply concerned about the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. This health crisis has resulted in more than 1,350 reported deaths so far in a region that has been moving steadily toward peace and democratization. This outbreak of the Ebola virus has already killed more people than any other Ebola epidemic in history.
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
IFES Supports Liberia's 2014 Voter Registration Update
In the first quarter of 2011, the National Elections Commission (NEC) – with IFES support – conducted a nationwide voter registration drive to compile a voter register that was used for the 2011 referendum and all subsequent elections.
News & Updates
Feature
Libyan Awareness Campaign Promotes Improved Access for Persons with Disabilities
The unrest that followed eight months of armed struggle to remove former Libyan President Muammar Gaddafi remains pronounced more than two years since the regime’s fall. While militias look for ways to transition back to civilian life, the number of wounded warriors and revolutionaries has risen sharply, underscoring the need to recognize persons with disabilities as equal citizens in a new Libya.
News & Updates
Feature
Women’s Political Participation in Libya: Progress and Pitfalls
It is crucial that women’s voices are heard as Libya codifies human rights in national legislation and establishes government institutions. This panel centers on the current situation in Libya for women as leaders, advocates and active participants in the country’s transition. Speakers highlight IFES’ 2013 Libya Status of Women Survey, which reveals public opinion of women’s political and economic standing; first-hand experiences; and success stories about increasing women’s engagement.
News & Updates
Press Release
Statement by IFES President and CEO Bill Sweeney on the Death of U.S. Ambassador Christopher Stevens
IFES offers its condolences to the families of the victims of the attacks in Benghazi on behalf of all our colleagues around the world. We remember the lives of those we lost and keep them in our thoughts and prayers.
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.