Institutional Framework of Electoral Integrity
Election Integrity Institutional Framework
The election integrity framework is built on the institutional foundations set out in the legal framework. It is composed of a number of agencies and organizations.
The main institutional players in an election are:
- those responsible for election policy and administration – that is, the electoral policy body and the electoral management body
- oversight agencies
- political party organizations and candidates competing in elections
- groups that attempt to influence the election outcome
- independent observers of the process
- the press
- enforcement agencies, including investigating agencies, prosecutors and the courts
The roles of these institutions in maintaining election integrity are discussed in each of the following subsections.
It is important for the roles of each institution to be clearly defined in the legal framework. In addition, separation of powers and a rational checks-and-balances system can help maintain integrity. As discussed in Guiding Principles, for instance, if an electoral management body is given too many roles—such as drafting electoral legislation, applying and enforcing the law, and then acting as a court of last resort for electoral matters—there are few institutional checks on its actions.
Institutional arrangements and agreement on these structures are important factors contributing to election integrity. One of the primary institutional questions is whether or not to have independent electoral policy and management bodies. In countries in transition with a history of one-party domination or authoritarian government, the creation of an independent electoral commission today is widely viewed as a vital measure to ensure impartial administration of elections and to win the trust of voters and parties. [1]
If the main political and civil society players agree on the type of institutional framework to be adopted, the result will be a more credible election body. Without agreement, discontent and distrust can at once spring up and continue to fester throughout the process.
Whether the institutional system adopted is “balanced” through inclusion of political party representatives, or whether it is officially independent or part of a government institution, it must have the political and financial autonomy necessary to administer a free, fair and competitive election. It must also be capable of ensuring that all political parties and candidates can participate equally and fairly.
NOTES
[1] Goodwin-Gill, Guy S. Free and Fair Elections: International Law and Practice, Geneva: Inter-Parliamentary Union, 1994.
Guidelines: Election Broadcasting in Transitional Countries (1994)
Guiding Principles of Electoral Integrity
