Will ECI Host the India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management 2026 from Jan 21-23?
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Synopsis
The upcoming India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management, organized by the ECI, promises to be a landmark event in electoral governance. With participation from global EMBs and experts, this conference aims to foster collaboration and share innovations in managing elections effectively.
Key Takeaways
- IICDEM 2026 will be held from January 21-23 in New Delhi.
- Expected participation from 100 international delegates.
- Focus on collaboration and innovation in electoral management.
- The theme is “Democracy for an inclusive, peaceful, resilient and sustainable world.”
- Over 40 bilateral meetings scheduled with EMB heads.
New Delhi, Jan 7 (NationPress) — The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to inaugurate the India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management (IICDEM) - 2026 from January 21 to 23 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, as per an official announcement.
This three-day global conference is being organized by the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) under the auspices of the ECI.
IICDEM 2026 promises to be the most significant international event hosted by India in the realm of election management and democratic processes. Nearly 100 international delegates are expected to attend, representing Election Management Bodies (EMBs) globally, alongside representatives from international organizations, foreign missions in India, and experts in electoral practices.
The conference will advance the agenda set forth by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar after India took on the Chairship of the Council of Member States of International IDEA for 2026. The discussions will focus on the theme, “Democracy for an inclusive, peaceful, resilient and sustainable world.”
In a media briefing on Tuesday, Director General of IIIDEM, Rakesh Verma, highlighted the main objectives of IICDEM 2026, characterizing it as a platform for enhancing international collaboration among EMBs.
The conference aims to cultivate a collective understanding of modern electoral challenges, promote the exchange of best practices and innovations, and foster collaborative problem-solving. An unveiling of the official logo for IICDEM 2026 followed this interaction.
Participants will gain insights into India's electoral framework, processes, and technological advancements, which have positioned Indian elections as a benchmark in global democracies.
The agenda will include inaugural and plenary sessions, featuring the Inaugural Session, EMB Leaders’ Plenary, EMB Working Group Meetings, and the launch of ECINet, along with thematic discussions addressing global electoral issues, international electoral standards, and best practices in election management.
Throughout the three-day event, the ECI, led by CEC Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi, will conduct over 40 bilateral meetings with heads of participating EMBs and other international representatives.
Moreover, the conference will attract participation from leading academic institutions, including four IITs, six IIMs, 12 National Law Universities (NLUs), and IIMCs, with 36 thematic groups coordinated by State and UT Chief Electoral Officers, as well as national and international academic experts contributing to the discussions.
After the press conference, media representatives were taken on a tour of the IIIDEM Dwarka campus, which is swiftly becoming one of the largest institutes globally for capacity building in election management, developing global electoral standards, and reinforcing India's leadership in international democratic collaboration.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that the India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management represents a significant step forward for India on the global stage. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration and shared learning in the electoral process, highlighting India's commitment to democracy and international cooperation.
NationPress
09/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the IICDEM 2026?
The IICDEM 2026 aims to foster international cooperation among Election Management Bodies and address contemporary electoral challenges through shared understanding and best practices.
Who will attend the IICDEM 2026?
The conference will be attended by nearly 100 international delegates from Election Management Bodies, representatives from foreign missions, and experts in electoral processes.
What are the key themes of the conference?
The key theme is 'Democracy for an inclusive, peaceful, resilient, and sustainable world,' focusing on enhancing global electoral standards and practices.
Where will the conference take place?
The IICDEM 2026 will take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
What initiatives will be launched during the conference?
The conference will include the launch of ECINet and various thematic sessions addressing global electoral issues and innovations.
