Pakistan Electoral System Support

This initiative strengthens the management capacity of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and is focused on increasing the participation of voters in Pakistan's political system. The project is aimed at improving the credibility of the country’s election system and increasing voter registration and turn-out. The work supports the goals and objectives of the ECP’s five-year Strategic Plan by providing technical expertise and training on all aspects of election management. There is a focus on engaging youth and promoting the rights of women and marginalized groups to ensure their representation in the democratic process. The key implementing partner is the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) as well as local civil society organizations who are engaged in voter and civic education. Project activities included: (1) provision of technical assistance to the ECP; (2) reform of the system of election of women’s reserved seats; (3) assessment of Electoral Management Practices and Development of Standard Operating Procedures; (4) training on establishing and maintaining stakeholder relations; and (5) development of targeted civic/voter education campaigns for marginalized groups. The ECP is the prime beneficiary of this project and IFES will provide technical advice and activity support for the implementation of the ECP’s Strategic Plan (2010-2014).

The expected outcomes of this project include: (1) strengthened electoral management capacity of the Election Commission of Pakistan; (2) improved legal and regulatory framework; (3) increased voter participation; and (4) increased level of engagement of voters in the political process.