1. International Perspectives on Electoral Reform
Steven Gray, Country Director
IFES Zimbabwe

2. International Perspectives on Electoral Reform
To improve on what is wrong, corrupt or unsatisfactory
Important to have a continuous process of reform

3. International Perspectives on Electoral Reform
Personal mission
Informed by Reform Judiasm
Concept of Tikkun Olam – to repair the World

4. Pillars of Electoral Reform
Choice of the electoral system
Political will
Good policy – need to apply the principles of accountability and transparency

5. International Perspectives on Electoral Reform
Rule of law is critical
Response to electoral abuse cannot be weak
Capacity to engage in continuous risk analysis
Early warning systems

6. International Perspectives on Electoral Reform
An autonomous, professional election commission
Partisan election commissions encourage failure
Assessments of the EMB through public hearings
A non-partisan public work ethic
A culture of independent public service

7. International Perspectives on Electoral Reform
Good observation by CSOs help EMBs do better
Can’t just be on Election Day
Needs to observe the whole electoral cycle

8. International Perspectives on Electoral Reform
Removing barriers to political participation
Women, youth, minorities, those with disabilities
Rules for parity/quotas can help
A comprehensive voter register is key

9. International Perspectives on Electoral Reform
Control over campaign finances
Public financing is ideal
At a minimum, a strong public accounting system
Clear limits and enforceable sanctions

10. International Perspectives on Electoral Reform
Resources are maybe the most important
Elections are expensive
Has to be a governmental priority
Donors play a key role, but need coordination

11. International Perspectives on Electoral Reform
Bureaucracies need to become active learning organizations
Trainings not briefings
Post-election reflection
Really understanding the electoral cycle and why it is a cycle

12. Thank you!