Strengthening democracies, governance, and elections in the region

November 8, 2024
a group of people standing in front of a crowd posing for the camera

Facilitators and participants of the BRIDGE workshop on Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections

Apia, SAMOA – Members of election management bodies (EMBs) from the sub-region of Polynesia convened in Apia this week for an intensive three-day ‘Building Resources in Democracy, Governance, and Elections’ (BRIDGE) workshop focused on electoral administration.

The workshop is organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Multi-Country Office in Samoa in collaboration with the Office of the Electoral Commissioner of Samoa, and the Pacific Islands, Australia and New Zealand Election Administrators (PIANZEA) network, and funded by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade through the UNDP Pacific Elections Assistance Programme. The workshop sees the participation of representatives from Cook Islands, New Zealand, Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, and Tuvalu.

“The objective of this workshop is both clear and ambitious: to equip participants with a strong understanding of the core elements of elections and electoral practices. Through this BRIDGE Introduction to Electoral Administration module, we aim to create a space for electoral officers to discuss essential topics such as electoral standards, principles, and management techniques,” said UNDP Resident Representative, Aliona Niculita.

The foundational module on election administration is designed to serve as a springboard for continuous professional development for Pacific EMBs. The workshop provides a platform for EMBs to share knowledge and explore different approaches to managing elections in a bid to build resilient and transparent electoral systems that reflect the diverse voices of local communities.

“OEC is privileged to have representatives from each of our divisions attend, contributing to a diverse exchange of perspectives and practices. The workshop addressed essential aspects of electoral structures, systems, and processes, fostering a comparative analysis of how various countries within the region administer their electoral duties. Through this exchange, participants not only shared solutions to common electoral challenges but also identified strategies that may enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our own systems,” said Electoral Commissioner, Tuiafelolo John Stanley.

a group of people posing for a picture

Facilitators and participants of the BRIDGE workshop on Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections

The workshop covered a range of topics critical to effective electoral administration including different structural mandates, legal frameworks, electoral cycles, and voting systems. Participants also explored various voting methods, discussing the benefits and limitations of each approach. This comparative insight into the complexities of electoral administration has provided valuable lessons that will inform future decision-making processes for OEC and other participating EMBs.

With an emphasis on both theory and practical application, the workshop facilitated the development of a regional network among EMBs. Through these connections, the OEC team gained insights into practices that could potentially resolve longstanding challenges within their operations while sharing solutions for issues they have successfully addressed.

The workshop not only strengthened their collective knowledge and skillsets, but also underscored the value of regional cooperation in addressing the evolving challenges of electoral administration. OEC remains committed to applying these learnings to enhance their capabilities and uphold the integrity of Samoa's electoral processes.

-ENDS-

For media queries, please contact: 
Seumanutafa Lima Vaepule, Public Relations Officer for the Office of the Electoral Commission | Tel. +685 24538 | E: l.vaepule@oec.gov.ws | www.oec.gov.ws  

Laufaleaina Lesa, UNDP Multi Country Office, Samoa | Tel. +685 23670 | E: laufaleaina.lesa@undp.org |
www.undpsamoa.ws