How is ECI Engaging Global Delegates During Bihar Elections?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- International Cooperation: The ECI's IEVP fosters global collaboration in electoral processes.
- Transparency: The program highlights India's commitment to transparent democratic practices.
- Showcasing Best Practices: India shares its electoral innovations with international delegates.
- Robust Framework: The IEVP emphasizes India's strong electoral management system.
- Global Leadership: India is positioning itself as a leader in electoral management.
New Delhi, Nov 6 (NationPress) As the initial phase of the Bihar Assembly elections commenced on Thursday, the Election Commission of India (ECI) hosted 16 delegates from six nations as part of its International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP). This initiative is designed to promote international collaboration and transparency in electoral processes, featuring participants from Colombia, Indonesia, Thailand, The Philippines, Belgium, and South Africa, who observed the preparations for one of the world's largest democratic events.
According to the ECI, the IEVP 2025 commenced on November 4 at the India International Institute for Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) in New Delhi. The inaugural session was led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar alongside Election Commissioner Vivek Joshi, who engaged with the delegates and provided insights into India's robust electoral framework.
During their time in Delhi, the delegates received comprehensive presentations on the operation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), voter roll management, and logistical readiness.
The IEVP entails a two-day excursion to Bihar from November 5-6, 2025, where delegates will observe EVM dispatch centers and the actual polling taking place on November 6, 2025, as indicated by the ECI's press release.
This program, initiated in 2014, serves as the ECI’s primary platform for international collaboration with Election Management Bodies (EMBs) and global democratic institutions. Through this initiative, India showcases its exemplary electoral practices and fosters mutual learning with partner countries.
The current edition highlights India’s escalating role as a leader in electoral management, utilizing the Bihar elections as a live demonstration of its operational scale, transparency, and integrity.