International Development Law Organization

Dialogue on Electoral Justice: Exploring approaches for effective dispute resolution

Dialogue on Electoral Justice: Exploring approaches for effective dispute resolution

Electoral justice is a key concern for both emerging and consolidated democracies. As a competition for political power, elections invite disputes at all stages of the electoral cycle and judicial redress is a fundamental element for the effective protection of civil and political rights.

Despite efforts to move towards multi-party elections that are free, fair and peaceful, there remain challenges. Judicial independence, efficiency and an appropriate legislative framework are factors that affect the timely and fair handling of electoral violations and complaints. The legitimacy of an election can hang in the balance.

IDLO, in partnership with the Electoral Tribunal of the Mexican Federal Judiciary, is convening an expert dialogue to discuss justice and democracy, and explore approaches to strengthen electoral dispute resolution and how international cooperation can pool human and knowledge resources to facilitate the exchange of good practices.

Details: 

12:00 – 14:00  |  Friday, September 7, 2018  |  IDLO Office, Hofweg 9E, The Hague, Netherlands

Experts participating:

  • Justice Luis Vargas Valdez, Justice of the High Chamber of the Electoral Tribunal of Mexico
  • Therese Pearce-Laanela, head of Electoral Processes Program at International IDEA
  • Professor Ben Vermeulen, member of the Dutch Council of State (Raad van State)
  • Alejandra Vicente, Legal Director at the Center for Justice and International Law (CEJIL) and Member of the Secretariat of the Gqual Campaign

Further reading:

A concept note is prepared (available for download below) providing scope for the dialogue.

IDLO's Lessons Learned Brief on judicial preparedness for handling electoral disputes in Kenya and beyond. 

Queries:

For any questions, please reach out to IDLO’s The Hague office here.

The event is organized by IDLO and the Electoral Tribunal of Mexico.

Photo copyright: Flickr-Paul Sableman