As one of the world's premier democracy and governance assistance organizations, IFES provides targeted expertise in strengthening developed and developing democracies. Founded in 1987 as a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, IFES has developed and implemented comprehensive, collaborative democracy solutions in more than 100 countries. IFES' professional capacity is embodied in our expert staff and senior consultants, among whom are geographical specialists in Africa, the Americas, Asia, the Middle East and Europe, and functional specialists in rule of law, civil society, good governance, election administration, applied research, human rights, gender issues and public information technology solutions.

Through the F. Clifton White Applied Research Center on Democracy and Elections, IFES became an enthusiastic participant and promoter of the ACE Electoral Knowledge Network.