|
total countries/territories: 220
|
|---|
| Country/Territory |
Answers |
Comments |
Verified |
|
Afghanistan
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
The mass media shall, to the extent possible, provide fair and equal conditions for participation of candidates in radio and TV round tables, debates, and other similar programs that they hold for participation of candidates. Commercials during the campaign period shall be an exception to this rule.
Source:
Afghan Regulation on Media Activities During Elections, art. 7: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/AF/afghanistan-regulation-on-media-activities-during/view (2014).
|
2019/09/24
|
|
Albania
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Electoral Code: 84: 3. Private radios and televisions have the right to organize electoral debates between the competing political parties or candidates. In these debates, the private radio/television broadcasters shall preserve the balance between the political parties participating in the debate. In the case of violations, the CEC orders the NCRT to debar the transmission of
the radio/television broadcaster for 48 hours, starting no later than 1800 of the following day.
Source:
The Electoral Code of the Republic of Albania, dated 2 April 2015, art. 84(3)
|
2017/05/19
|
|
Algeria
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
NDI Final Report on Algeria's Legislative Elections of 10 May 2012: https://www.ndi.org/sites/default/files/Algeria-Report-Leg-Elections-ENG.pdf (2017)
https://www.joradp.dz/hfr/consti.htm
|
2019/09/25
|
|
American Samoa
|
c. No
|
No debates but speeches are made on television.
Source:
Information collected at PIANZEA workshop in December 2006.
|
2012/05/23
|
|
Andorra
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Electoral law: 28/2007 - "Llei qualificada del règim electoral i del referèndum", art. 31 (3): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/AD/andorra-electoral-law-2007/
|
2023/06/09
|
|
Angola
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Electoral Law n.º 36/11 of 21 December 2011 regulating General Elections: http://www.tribunalconstitucional.ao/uploads/%7Bc46fa0b3-c947-4440-ae92-5f1a3a275d8a%7D.pdf (2017);
Law n.º 22/10 of 3 December 2010 on Political Parties: http://www.tribunalconstitucional.ao/uploads/%7Bba5a9a35-5652-4e00-ba36-89281ab1b7a6%7D.pdf (2017)
|
2017/03/29
|
|
Anguilla
|
d. No information available
|
|
2015/02/27
|
|
Antigua and Barbuda
|
d. No information available
|
|
2009/08/20
|
|
Argentina
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Electoral Code: “Código Electoral Nacional — Ley 19945”, art. 64 decies: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-ley-19945-codigo-electoral-nacional-2019/ (2019);
Cipe Development Blog "Will Argentina’s First-Ever Presidential Debate Help Change Politics for the Better?" http://www.cipe.org/blog/2015/10/07/will-argentinas-first-ever-presidential-debate-help-change-politics-for-the-better/#.Vif7U36rS70 (2015)
|
2021/12/26
|
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Armenia
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
During the pre-electoral period for the presidential elections in 2013, no debates were organized between candidates.
During the campaign period for the parliamentary elections of 2012, two private TV channels organized TV debates, but in 7 cases one or more invitees did not attend the scheduled debates. No debates among prominent candidates or party leaders were organized.
Despite efforts of some media outlets, during the presidential election of 2008, no candidate debates took place, ostensibly due to a lack of interest by candidates.
With the start of the official campaign period of the parliamentary elections in 2007, there was a noticeable increase of media attention to campaign events and of visibility of election contestants. Several pre-election debates were organized at national level.
During parliamentary elections held in 2003, public TV and many local private broadcasters organized numerous debates between candidates and offered various formats of discussion and analytical programmes on election issues.
Source:
Election Observation Mission Preliminary Statement on the Presidential Election in the Republic of Armenia (OSCE/ODIHR, 2013): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/99675;
Election Observation Mission Final Report on the Parliamentary Election in the Republic of Armenia (OSCE/ODIHR, 2012): http://www.osce.org/odihr/91643;
Election Observation Mission Final Report on the Presidential Election in the Republic of Armenia (OSCE/ODIHR, 2008): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/armenia/32115;
Election Observation Mission Final Report on Parliamentary Elections in the Republic of Armenia (OSCE/ODIHR, 2007): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/armenia/26606;
Election Observation Mission Final Report on Parliamentary Elections in the Republic of Armenia (OSCE/ODIHR, 2003): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/armenia/42371.
|
2015/12/01
|
|
Aruba
|
c. No
|
Source:
Mr. Hubert Maduro, President, Electoral Council of Aruba
|
2007/01/25
|
|
Australia
|
c. No
|
Debates between the 2 major parties are occasionally conducted but are not required. Participation by individual candidates and smaller parties is rare.
Source:
http://www.aec.gov.au/About_AEC/Publications/backgrounders/index.htm
|
2024/09/09
|
|
Austria
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Federal Act on the Functions, Financing and Election Campaigning of
Political Parties (1975)
|
2012/05/29
|
|
Azerbaijan
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
According to the final report of the OSCE/ODIHR, in 2008 presidential election regular roundtable discussions on Public TV and radio provided an opportunity for candidates to present their message to voters, although the format of these roundtables offered limited opportunities for genuine political debate. While the presidential election in 2003 is characterized by the organization of regular televised debates among candidates or their representatives by State TV.
During the parliamentary elections in 2010, the four minutes of free airtime allocated to each candidate were the only opportunity for them to present their message to voters, as no other national TV channel organized debates or political talk shows with candidates.
During the parliamentary elections held in 2005, regular televised debates, although somewhat limited by the format, gave the parties further opportunities to inform voters of their views.
Source:
Election Observation Mission Final Report on the Presidential Election in the Republic of Azerbaijan (OSCE/ODIHR, 2008): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/azerbaijan/35625;
Election Observation Mission Final Report on the Presidential Election in the Republic of Azerbaijan (OSCE/ODIHR, 2003):
http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/azerbaijan/13467;
Election Observation Mission Final Report on the Parliamentary Elections in the Republic of Azerbaijan (OSCE/ODIHR, 2010):
http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/azerbaijan/75073;
Election Observation Mission Final Report on the Parliamentary Elections in the Republic of Azerbaijan (OSCE/ODIHR, 2005):
http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/azerbaijan/17946.
|
2024/11/12
|
|
Bahamas
|
d. No information available
|
|
2017/03/27
|
|
Bahrain
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
The Shura and Representatives Councils Law: https://regulations-references-laws-s3-bucket.s3.me-south-1.amazonaws.com/public/_pdf-1705188185067.pdf
Official Website of the Directorate of Election and Referendum:
|
2024/11/25
|
|
Bangladesh
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/05/30
|
|
Barbados
|
d. No information available
|
|
2009/08/21
|
|
Belarus
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
The Central Commission reserves a part of the limit time as to hold TV debates of the candidates for the President of the Republic of Belarus, deputies of the House of Representatives. The TV debates are held upon agreement of the candidates. The candidate is entitled to authorize an authorized person to participate in the TV debates. Failure to participate in the TV debates shall not result in increase of broadcasting time provided to the candidate for free.
Source:
Electoral Code: "Electoral Code of the Republic of Belarus”, art. 46: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/BY/belarus-electoral-code-2023-english/ ;
Three presidential contenders agree to take part in TV debates. Euroradio. 17 sep 2015: https://euroradio.fm/en/three-presidential-contenders-agree-take-part-tv-debates
|
2023/09/13
|
|
Belgium
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Stéphan de Mul, Attaché - Service législation, Service Public Fédéral Intérieur
|
2019/04/25
|
|
Belize
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
A debate was organised in 2015 by The San Pedro Sun and Reef TV, but it was between those contesting for Area Representative of Belize Rural South.
Source:
"Belize Rural North Candidates Holds Public Debate”: https://edition.channel5belize.com/belize-rural-north-candidates-holds-public-debate/
“Belize Rural South Standard Bearers participate in debate ahead of general election”: https://www.sanpedrosun.com/politics-and-government/2025/03/07/belize-rural-south-standard-bearer-participate-in-debate-ahead-of-general-election/
“Belize Rural South Standard Bearers participate in historic debates”: http://www.sanpedrosun.com/politics-and-government/2015/10/29/belize-rural-south-standard-bearers-participate-in-historic-debates/
|
2025/03/24
|
|
Benin
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, Rapport de la Mission francophone d'information et de contacts aux élections presidentielles du 13 mars 2011 au Benin, p. 1.4.2.3. §5: http://democratie.francophonie.org/IMG/pdf/Rapport_mission_Benin_2011.pdf (2016)
|
2019/04/05
|
|
Bermuda
|
c. No
|
Source:
Randy Scott, Parliamentary Registry
|
2012/05/31
|
|
Bhutan
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
https://www.ecb.bt/public-debate-schedule-for-national-council-2023/
|
2024/08/27
|
|
Bolivia
|
c. No
|
Source:
Political Parties’ Law; “Ley de Organizaciones Políticas — Ley 1096-2018”, http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BO/bolivia-ley-1096-2018-de-organizaciones-politicas/ (2019).
|
2024/12/10
|
|
Bosnia and Herzegovina
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
In the 2014 elections, there were only a few discussion programs in which all key candidates participated, and these discussions were for the most part not substantive.
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR Election Observation Mission Final Report on Bosnia and Herzegovina General Elections, 13 October 2014, Warsaw 7 January 2015, p. 16 https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/bih/133511?download=true
|
2014/10/11
|
|
Botswana
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Botswana Daily News - "Public media gears up for 2014 general elections": http://www.dailynews.gov.bw/news-details.php?nid=12378 (2014);
GABZ FM - Presidential Debate 2014: http://www.gabzfm.com/gabz-fm-presidential-debate-2014 (2014);
GABZ FM Holds Nationwide Parliamnetary Debates: http://www.gabzfm.com/gabz-fm-holds-nationwide-parliamentary-debates (2014).
|
2014/10/28
|
|
Brazil
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Article 46.
Regardless of the broadcast of free electoral advertising in the time defined by this law, it is allowed for a radio or television broadcaster to transmit debates about majoritarian or proportional elections, ensuring the participation of candidates from parties with representation in the National Congress, with at least five parliamentarians, and the participation of others is optional, subject to the following conditions...
Source:
Elections Law – Law No. 9,504, of September 30, 1997, Article 36 - 57-J:
https://www.tse.jus.br/legislacao/codigo-eleitoral/lei-das-eleicoes/lei-das-eleicoes-lei-nb0-9.504-de-30-de-setembro-de-1997
|
2024/10/21
|
|
Brunei Darussalam
|
e. Not applicable
|
Source:
CIA World Factbook: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/bx.html (2013);
Freedom House Report 2012: http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2012/brunei (2013)
|
2013/03/18
|
|
Bulgaria
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
The Bulgarian National Television and the Bulgarian National Radio provide the parties, coalitions and initiative committees, registered candidates, television and radio debates free to agreed topics with a total duration not less than 240 minutes. It also provides a total of at least 60 minutes during radio and television programs, respectively in regional broadcasts of radio and television centers, free debates between representatives of parties, coalitions and initiative committees , registered candidates.
Source:
Electoral Law: Election Code, Art. 189, 195, 196:1
http://dv.parliament.bg/DVWeb/showMaterialDV.jsp?idMat=82965
|
2014/10/01
|
|
Burkina Faso
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Electoral Code as amended in 2015, art. 71: http://www.ceni.bf/sites/default/files/Code_électoral_BF-Version_21.05.2015.pdf (2015)
|
2015/12/04
|
|
Burma (Myanmar)
|
c. No
|
Source:
The Pyithu Hluttaw Election Law:http://www.altsean.org/Research/2010/Resources/Laws/Pyithu%20Hluttaw%20Election%20Law.pdf (2013);
The Political Parties Registration Law No. 2 /2010 with the 2011 amendments: http://www.altsean.org/Research/2010/Resources/Laws/Political%20Parties%20Registration%20Law.pdf (2013);
Thai Action Committee for Democracy in Burma, Election Summary Report of Burma Parliamentary & Local Assembly Elections held in November 2010, p. 10: http://www.tourismtransparency.org/sites/default/files/reports/An%20Election%20of%20Generals.pdf(2013).
|
2015/11/17
|
|
Burundi
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Electoral Code, art. 31: https://courconstitutionnelle.gov.bi/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Code-Electoral_30092024095027.pdf
|
2025/05/08
|
|
Cambodia
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
The EU Election Observation Mission reported there were televised debates organized by the NDI.
Source:
EU Election Observation Mission, Final Report on the 2008 National Assembly Elections in the Kingdom of Cambodia, p. 35, 36: http://eeas.europa.eu/eueom/pdf/missions/finalpreliminarystatement.pdf (2013);
National Democratic Institute, National Assembly Candidate Debates, p. 3, https://www.ndi.org/sites/default/files/cambodia-national-assembly-candidate-debates-110713.pdf
|
2023/10/12
|
|
Cameroon
|
c. No
|
Source:
Transparency International Cameroon, Final Report of the Election Observation Mission to the Presidential Elections of 09 October 2011 in Cameroon: http://www.ti-cameroon.org/doc/Rapport%20final%20d%27observation_Elections%20prsidentielles_TI-C_eng.pdf (2012);
The Commonwealth, Final Report Final Report of the Election Observation Mission to the Presidential Elections of 09 October 2011 in Cameroon: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/files/242978/FileName/2011CETCameroonPresidentialElectionReport.pdf (2012)
|
2012/08/10
|
|
Canada
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
The Canada Elections Act (2015), Clause 319
http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/E-2.01.pdf
|
2025/03/28
|
|
Cape Verde
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Official Website of Expresso: http://expresso.sapo.pt/cabo-verdeeleicoes-debate-mostrou-candidatos-de-acordo-em-quase-tudo-menos-na-personalidade=f668504 (2016)
|
2016/05/04
|
|
Cayman Islands
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
The Chamber of Commerce and the Cayman Compass newspaper, each organised a series of debates during the last legislative elections that were streamed online.
Source:
Electoral Observation Report: “Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Election Expert Mission, Final Report”, page 17: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/KY/cayman-islands-cpa-bimr-electoral-observation-report-2021/ ;
|
2021/12/13
|
|
Central African Republic
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Electoral Law N° 09.016, Art. 59: http://ddata.over-blog.com/1/35/48/78/Centrafrique/CODE_ELECTORAL-RCA-2-octobre-2010.pdf (2016);
|
2021/04/19
|
|
Chad
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Electoral Law N° 003/PR/2008 amended by law n° 008/PR/2009, law n° 007/PR/2010 and law n° 020/PR/2010, art. 119: http://publicofficialsfinancialdisclosure.worldbank.org/sites/fdl/files/assets/law-library-files/Chad_Electoral%20code_2009_fr.pdf (2016)
|
2019/04/23
|
|
Chile
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Television debates are not foreseen in the electoral law.
Source:
Ruíz, Fernando y Hernán Alberro, “Ola de debates electorales en América Latina: Luces y sombras de un avance democrático”, 2013, p. 6: http://www.kas.de/upload/auslandshomepages/medioslatinos/debates_electorales.pdf
|
2025/03/25
|
|
China
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/06/04
|
|
Cocos (keeling) Islands
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Debates between the 2 major parties are occasionally conducted but are not required. Participation by individual candidates and smaller parties is rare.
Source:
http://www.aec.gov.au/About_AEC/Publications/backgrounders/index.htm
|
2019/07/10
|
|
Colombia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Fernando J. Ruiz y Hernán Alberro: “Ola de debates electorales en América Latina: luces y sombras de un avance democrático”: http://www.kas.de/upload/auslandshomepages/medioslatinos/debates_electorales.pdf
|
2024/12/13
|
|
Comoros
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Law No 10-018/AU Amending certain provisions of the Electoral Act No. 07-001/AU of 14 January 2007, art. 73
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/KM/comores-electoral-law-2010/view (2016)
|
2016/04/12
|
|
Congo (Brazzaville)
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Election law of 24 November 2001, Art. 36, 39: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/CG/congo-brazzaville-electoral-law-2001/view (2001)
|
2015/10/23
|
|
Congo (Kinshasa), Democratic Republic of the
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
1)Loi électorale de la RDC (2015), art. 33:http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/CD/congo-kinshasa-rdc-loi-electorale-2015/view
2) Rapport Final, Élections présidentielle et législatives, Mission d'Observation de l'UE en RDC aux élections présidentielle et législatives de 2011: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/CD/rdc-rapport-final-elections-presidentielle-et/
|
2016/11/29
|
|
Cook Islands
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Teokoati Joseph, Chief Probation Officer, Probation Service - Ministry of Justice
|
2012/06/05
|
|
Costa Rica
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Electoral Law: “Ley 8765: Código Electoral”, art. 12: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/CR/costa-rica-ley-8765-codigo-electoral-2018.pdf/; Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones: *http://www.tse.go.cr/comunicado478.htm *https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMSnA_VZPNI *https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBXIuUaJFCI; Radio Monumental: http://www.monumental.co.cr/2017/11/15/radio-monumental-realizara-once-debates-de-cara-a-las-elecciones-nacionales-2018/
|
2018/01/24
|
|
Croatia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR Limited Election Observation Mission Report on the Parliamentary Elections in Croatia on 4 December 2011 (Warsaw, 2011):
http://www.osce.org/odihr/87655
OSCE/ODIHR Limited Election Observation Mission Final Report on the Presidential Election in Croatia on 27 December 2009 and 10 January 2010 (Warsaw, 2010): http://www.osce.org/documents/odihr-el/2010/04/43364_en.pdf
|
2020/07/06
|
|
Cuba
|
c. No
|
There are no debates at all since the electores choose according to the candidates' biography.
Source:
Electoral Law: “Ley No. 127, Ley Electoral”, art. 199–201: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/CU/cuba-ley-electoral-127-2019-ace/
|
2023/09/12
|
|
Cyprus
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Law 7(I)/1998 Regulating Radio and Television Stations (Greek Version), Art. 34D, 45(1):
http://www.cylaw.org/nomoi/enop/non-ind/1998_1_7/full.html (2016);
Election Assessment Mission Final Report, Parliamentary Elections of May 22, OSCE/ODIHR - 2011:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/CY/cyprus-election-assessment-mission-final-report/ (2016).
|
2024/10/25
|
|
Cyprus (North)
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/06/07
|
|
Czech Republic
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
(2010 report): Media is covering election campaign through debates, interviews, news and other political programs.
Both public television CT and public radio invite to pre-election debates those parties that have more that five per cent support.
(2017/18 report): CT informed the OSCE/ODIHR NAM that debates will be held among those contestants who the opinion polls predict to enter the parliament and among all presidential candidates.
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report on Parliamentary Elections 28-29 MAY 2010 in Czech Republic (Warsaw, 2010): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/CZ/czech-republic-act-no.-247-on-elections-to-the/view (2017)
Czech Republic: Needs Assessment Mission Report, Parliamentary and Presidential Elections 2017, 2018 OSCE/ODIHR (2017)
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/CZ/czech-republic-needs-assessment-mission-report-2/view
|
2023/09/18
|
|
Côte d'Ivoire
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Rapport Final, Élections Présidentielles de 2010, Mission d'observation électorale de l'UE (2010), art.30: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/CI/cote-divoire-code-electoral-2015/view
|
2016/12/01
|
|
Denmark
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
NORA: Nordic Journal of Women's Studies, Volume 9, Number 2, 1 October 2001, pp. 107-112
|
2019/05/27
|
|
Djibouti
|
c. No
|
It seems that Djibouti had its first televised debates in 2013, but it is not regulated in the legal framework and there is no information about debates prior to the recent 2018 elections.
Source:
Electoral Law n° 1/ AN /92 regulating elections, as amended 2002
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/DJ/djibouti-loi-electorale-avec-modifications-2002/view
http://allafrica.com/stories/201302200355.html
|
2018/04/02
|
|
Dominican Republic
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Ley Electoral “Ley Orgánica de Régimen Electoral No. 15-19, art. 172 (Párrafo) http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DO/republica-dominicana-ley-organica-de-regimen/ (2019)
https://elnuevodiario.com.do/esta-lista-la-republica-dominicana-para-debates-electorales/
https://acento.com.do/2019/actualidad/8751560-medios-de-comunicacion-firman-declaracion-en-apoyo-a-anje-para-debates-electorales-2020/
|
2020/02/05
|
|
Ecuador
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución de la República del Ecuador”, art. 118: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/EC/ecuador-constitucion-2020/ ;
Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica Electoral y de Organizaciones Políticas de la República del Ecuador, Código de la Democracia”, art. 202.2: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/EC/ecuador-codigo-democracia-2023/
|
2025/03/13
|
|
Egypt
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Decree of the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, by Law No. (45) of 2014, on the Issuance of Law for regulating the Exercise of Some Political Rights: http://www.sis.gov.eg/En/Templates/Articles/tmpArticles.aspx?ArtID=78396#.ViEX-vlVhHx (2014).
|
2018/04/02
|
|
El Salvador
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Debates International: El Salvador: https://www.debatesinternational.org/country/el-salvador/ ;
2014 Election Blog: Breaking Down El Salvador's First Presidential Debate:
http://www.as-coa.org/blogs/2014-election-blog-breaking-down-el-salvadors-first-presidential-debate (2014)
|
2024/12/19
|
|
Eritrea
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/country_profiles/1070813.stm
|
2011/06/22
|
|
Estonia
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
In line with its legal obligations, ETV1 organized five live debates for political parties. Four of them focused on thematic issues, and one was organized for party leaders on the eve of the elections. ETV2 held a debate in Russian. All political parties standing were invited to each debate. ETV1 also held a debate for independent candidates. The debates attracted high viewership and they received much comment in the online and print media.
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR Election Assessment Mission Report on the Parliamentary Elections in the Republic of Estonia on 6 March 2011 (Warsaw, 2011): http://www.osce.org/odihr/77557
|
2015/03/03
|
|
Ethiopia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Broadcasting Service Proclamation No 533/2007, art. 43: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/ET/ethiopia-broadcasting-service-proclamation-no-533/view
Electoral Law as amended by Proclamation No. 532/2007, art. 59
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/ET/ethiopia-proclamatio-no.-532-2007-amending-the/view
|
2015/05/18
|
|
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
|
c. No
|
Source:
John Rowland, Office of the Registrar General
|
2007/02/14
|
|
Fiji
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
The media also helped to stimulate the ‘national conversation’ in the preelection period. Fiji Television organised a national debate between several of the party leaders. A number of the radio stations staged discussion and ‘talkback’ programmes. The print media, although critical of its own record in analysis and investigative reporting, in our view did well as a forum for national debate.
Source:
Fiji Islands General Election 2006 REPORT OF THE COMMONWEALTH OBSERVER GROUP p. 29
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/FJ/fiji-final-report-general-elections-commonwealth-1/view
Electoral Decree No. 11 of 2014, sec. 115 (1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/FJ/fiji-electoral-decree-no.-11-of-2014/at_download/file (2014).
|
2018/04/20
|
|
Finland
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
"The legislation does not envisage official campaign period. All political parties met with by the
ODIHR NAM intend to campaign actively, including through online and social media, as well as
to participate in debates organized by the public broadcaster." (OSCE/ODIHR 2019)
"There are no legal regulations on the media coverage of the presidential campaign and media are
largely self-regulated. The YLE’s operations are governed by the 1993 Act on Yleisradio Oy which
requires the public broadcaster to “support democracy and everyone’s opportunity to participate by
providing a wide variety of information, opinions and debates as well as opportunities to interact.” (OSCE/ODIHR 2018)
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR Needs Assesment Mission Report, Republic of Finland, Parliamentary Elections, 14 April 2019
OSCE/ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, Republic of Finland Presidential Election, 28 January 2018
https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/finland/359301?download=true
OSCE/ODIHR NEEDS assessment mission report - Parliamentary Elections in Finland (17 April 2011): http://www.osce.org/odihr/75599 (2012)
|
2019/04/02
|
|
France
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Official Website of the Supreme Council for Audiovisual Services: http://www.csa.fr/Television/Le-suivi-des-programmes/Le-pluralisme-politique-et-les-campagnes-electorales/Le-pluralisme-en-periode-electorale
|
2020/06/20
|
|
French Guiana
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Elections office, Ministry of Interior, France, [email protected]
|
2007/01/14
|
|
French Polynesia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Elections office, Ministry of Interior, France, [email protected]
|
2007/01/19
|
|
Gabon
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Code of Audiovisual, Cinematographic and Written Communication (Law No. 07/2001), art. 52: http://www.droit-afrique.com/images/textes/Gabon/Gabon%20-%20Code%20de%20la%20communication.pdf (2017)
|
2025/05/13
|
|
Gambia
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Report of the Commonwealth Expert Team on the Gambia presidential election of 24 November 2011: http://aceproject.org/electoral-advice/dop?country=Gambia&organization=&year=2011&election=2&mission=&report=3&keywords= (2012)
|
2017/03/21
|
|
Georgia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Public Broadcasters run debates for party-elected candidates.
Many broadcasters intend to conduct various debates among the political contestants.
Source:
OSCE Report on Presidential Elections 2018. Part C:
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/9/4/412724_2.pdf
The Election Code of Georgia, art. 51, 185:
https://matsne.gov.ge/en/document/view/1557168?publication=87
|
2024/07/25
|
|
Germany
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
There are televised debates at the state level since 1997 and at the national level since 2002. During the campaign of the elections for the Bundestag 2002 a televised debate between the sitting Federal Chancellor and his challenger was conducted for the first time.
Source:
Maier, J. and Jansen, C. 2015. When do candidates attack in election campaigns? Exploring the determinants of negative candidate messages in German televised debates. Party Politics (2015): 1354068815610966: http://ppq.sagepub.com/content/early/2015/10/13/1354068815610966.abstract (2017).
Anstead, N. 2015. Media Policy Brief 13. Televised Debates in Parliamentary Democracies (2017). LSE:http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/66293/1/Anstead_A_Different_Beast%201.pdf
|
2025/03/11
|
|
Ghana
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
EISA Interim Statement of the Election Observer Mission to the 7th December 2012 presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana, p.5: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-interim-statement-presidential-and-1/
|
2016/10/05
|
|
Gibraltar
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
https://www.chronicle.gi/first-leaders-debate-highlights-policy-distinctions/
|
2019/11/04
|
|
Greece
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Law 3023/2002, Art. 12:2 and 30:2
https://www.hellenicparliament.gr/Nomothetiko-Ergo/Anazitisi-Nomothetikou-Ergou?law_id=277423dd-c105-442d-8ebc-a73cd296ba8a
|
2020/07/26
|
|
Greenland
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/06/14
|
|
Guadeloupe
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Elections office, Ministry of Interior, France, [email protected]
|
2007/01/14
|
|
Guam
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
https://gec.guam.gov/?s=debate
|
2020/10/28
|
|
Guatemala
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
While there is no provision in the law, however, televised presidential debates have occurred ever since 2007.
Source:
República: “Elecciones 2023: Inician los debates de República con candidatos presidenciales”: https://republica.gt/politica/elecciones-2023-inician-los-debates-de-republica-con-candidatos-presidenciales-202342611290/ ;
CNN: "Crime, immigration issues dominate Guatemala debate (2007).", http://edition.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/americas/08/31/guatemala.debate/index.html?eref=rss_latest; Debates International: https://www.debatesinternational.org/taxonomy/term/172
|
2023/05/29
|
|
Guinea
|
c. No
|
Source:
Electoral Code No. 91/012/CTRN, art. 60: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GN/guinea-electoral-code-2010/;
EU Electoral Observation Mission to the 2010 presidential elections in Guinea, Final Report, p. 38: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GN/guinea-final-report-presidential-elections-eu-2010
|
2017/01/26
|
|
Guinea-Bissau
|
d. No information available
|
|
2014/06/24
|
|
Guyana
|
c. No
|
No. In 2011 Guyana attempted to hold the country's first presidential debates, however they were cancelled.
Source:
Vishnu Persaud, Guyana Elections Commission
Guyana Chronicle, http://www.guyanachronicle.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=35386%3Ancn-presidential-candidates-debate-cancelled&Itemid=12
|
2015/05/11
|
|
Holy See (Vatican City State)
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/05/14
|
|
Honduras
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
DEBATE PRESIDENCIAL 2025 organizado por el Consejo Hondureño de la Empresa Privada (COHEP): https://x.com/radioamericahn/status/1882226468475838471
|
2025/08/07
|
|
Hong Kong
|
d. No information available
|
11.4 For programmes of which the entire or part of the theme is on the
election (e.g. for introducing the candidates/lists of candidates or
reporting/analysing the election platforms and activities of the candidates/lists
of candidates), the fair and equal treatment principle will apply. In
accordance with the fair and equal treatment principle, broadcasters should
ensure that each of the candidates/lists of candidates contesting in the same
constituency will be introduced and reported in the programme and no
favourable or unfavourable treatment will be given to any of the
candidates/lists of candidates. [Amended in June 2016]
Source:
Legislative Council Election Guidelines, 11.4:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/HK/hong-kong-legislative-council-general-election-4/view
|
2021/06/07
|
|
Hungary
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Debates have not been conducted regularly in the last two elections (2014 and 2018). In 2018, there was one televised debate with three candidates, and the incumbent declined to participate in debates.
Source:
Hungary Parliamentary Elections 8 April 2018: ODIHR Limited Election Observation Mission Final Report, p. 20: https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/hungary/385959?download=true;
Hungary Parliamentary Elections 6 April 2014: OSCE/ODIHR Limited Election Observation Mission Final Report, p. 17: https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/hungary/121098?download=true.
|
2018/07/30
|
|
Iceland
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Broadcasting Act No. 53, 2000.
https://www.wipo.int/edocs/lexdocs/laws/en/is/is098en.pdf
|
2020/07/27
|
|
India
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
In addition to the broadcast by parties, the Prasar Bharati Corporation organise a maximum of two panel discussions and/or debates on the Kendra/Station of Doordarshan/All India Radio for Assembly Election.
Source:
Compendium of Instruction on Media Related Matters (January 2020): https://ceoharyana.gov.in/Website/ELECTIONCOMMISSION/Images/ee4f86ef-18f6-4154-a391-deba8dc9e986.pdf
|
2024/09/05
|
|
Indonesia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Articles 277 and 290 contain provisions and rules for conducting presidential debates. Article 451(3) contains information on funding for presidential debates.
Source:
Indonesia: Electoral Code, Law No. 7 (2017), Art. 277, 290, 451(3), https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/ID/indonesia-electoral-code-law-nr.-7-2017/view
|
2024/02/07
|
|
Iran, Islamic Republic of
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Radio Free Europe Ratio Library, "Iranian Presidential Candidates Meet In Televised Debate" (2013)
http://www.rferl.org/content/iran-presidential-debate/25003083.html
IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
https://iranwire.com/en/politics/131337-pezeshkian-and-jalili-face-off-in-heated-presidential-debate/
|
2024/11/19
|
|
Iraq
|
d. No information available
|
|
2018/04/19
|
|
Ireland
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
https://about.rte.ie/2024/11/11/rte-announces-comprehensive-2024-general-election-coverage-across-tv-radio-and-online-to-keep-ireland-inform/
|
2024/11/21
|
|
Israel
|
d. No information available
|
|
2019/06/13
|
|
Italy
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Law of 22 February 2000, n. 28, Art. 4;
Legislative decree of 31 July 2005, n. 177 ("Testo unico della radiotelevisione"), Art. 7
|
2020/07/18
|
|
Japan
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
The legal framework does not mention the debates but party representatives usually have opportunities of televised debates through mass media (TV) and the internet.
|
2019/07/09
|
|
Jordan
|
d. No information available
|
|
2013/01/25
|
|
Kazakhstan
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Candidates for President, political parties that have nominated party lists of candidates for the Mazhilis members to the Parliament shall have the right to participate in pre-election debates organized by the Central Election Commission.
Source:
Constitutional Law on Elections of the Republic of Kazakhstan as amended on June 29, 2018, art. 28: https://www.election.gov.kz/eng/election-legal-framework/the-laws-of-the-rk.php
|
2024/10/23
|
|
Kenya
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
|
2012/03/28
|
|
Kiribati
|
d. No information available
|
No official information provided.
It is unlikely as there is no national television service in the country.
Source:
Commonwealth of Nations website
http://www.commonwealthofnations.org/sectors-kiribati/business/media_and_broadcasting/
|
2020/05/05
|
|
Korea, Democratic People's Republic of
|
d. No information available
|
|
2014/06/23
|
|
Korea, Republic of
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Public Official Election Act, Article 82, 82 (2), 82(3): https://www.nec.go.kr/site/eng/ex/bbs/List.do?cbIdx=1280
|
2024/08/28
|
|
Kuwait
|
d. No information available
|
|
2013/01/31
|
|
Kyrgyzstan
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
At least one half of the total amount of free airtime shall be given to candidates and political
parties that have nominated lists of candidates, exclusively for joint debates and other similar
campaigning activities. All candidates and political parties must be allowed to use this share of
free airtime on an equal basis.
Registered candidates, including candidates from the registered list of political parties, should
participate only in person in joint campaigning events (debates and other similar events) on the
channels of TV and radio organizations broadcasting on the entire territory of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Source:
Constitutional Law No 68 of 2011 (amended 2020) “On elections of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic and deputies of Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic”, art. 24(3): https://legislationline.org/sites/default/files/documents/a1/KYRG_Const%20Laww%20on%20Elections%20of%20President%20and%20MPs.pdf
|
2025/05/07
|
|
Lao People's Democratic Republic
|
c. No
|
Source:
Constitution: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LA/Lao-People2019s-Democratic-Republic-Constitution/view;
Law No. 37/PO on the Election of Members of the National Assembly: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LA/Lao-People2019s-Democratic-Republic-Law-on/view
|
2021/02/28
|
|
Latvia
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Public TV LTV1 provided an overall balanced coverage of the main contestants, and was largely in a neutral tone in its news, current affairs’ programmes and debates.LTV1 fulfilled its obligation to provide political parties with free airtime31 and organized nine election debates, three of them with all 13 contenders.
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR Limited Election Observation Mission Final Report on Early Parliamentary Elections (17 September 2011)in Republic of Latvia. (Warsaw 19 December 2011): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/Latvia/86363
|
2014/10/03
|
|
Lebanon
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Parliamentary Election Law, art. 68,69: http://www.presidency.gov.lb/English/LebaneseSystem/Documents/Lebanese%20Constitution.pdf
https://elections.gov.lb/getattachment/00bbe177-0eec-4f8a-a4df-e47c7e19b4de/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%B5-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%83%D8%A7%D9%85%D9%84-%28PDF%29.aspx%20(2017)
|
2024/11/20
|
|
Lesotho
|
c. No
|
Source:
Dr Khabele Matlosa, Head of Research, EISA; 1 Oct 2007.
|
2017/07/19
|
|
Liberia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
The Carter Center, Final Report on the 2011 National Elections in Liberia, p. 26, 70, 80: http://www.cartercenter.org/resources/pdfs/news/peace_publications/election_reports/liberia2011-finalrpt.pdf (2013);
EISA Interim Statement of the Election Observer Mission to the Liberia Presidential, Senate and House of Representatives Elections of 11 October 2011, p. 4: http://www.eisa.org.za/PDF/eomli201110.pdf (2013)
|
2024/10/25
|
|
Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
|
d. No information available
|
|
2024/11/25
|
|
Liechtenstein
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, Principality of Liechtenstein, Parliamentary Elections 7 February 2021, Needs Assessment Mission Report, 2020 (9)
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/a/f/473469.pdf
|
2025/02/18
|
|
Lithuania
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Law on Elections to the Seimas
Article 51:
(2) Discussions of candidates over the radio and television shall be financed with funds of the state budget from the appropriations allocated for the Central Electoral Commission.
Law on Presidential Elections
Article 46:
(2) Discussions of candidates for President of the Republic over the radio and television shall be financed with funds of the state budget from the appropriations allocated for the Central Electoral Commission.
Source:
Republic of Lithuania, Law on the Elections to the Seimas (9 July 1992, as last amended on 22 March 2016 – No XII-2265), art. 51(2-5)
https://e-seimas.lrs.lt/portal/legalAct/lt/TAD/89e6d1a0f58111e5bf4ee4a6d3cdb874?jfwid=tu0odnkka
Republic of Lithuania, Law on Presidential Elections (22 December 1992, as last amended on 6 November 2012 – No XI-2334), art. 46 (2-5)
https://e-seimas.lrs.lt/portal/legalAct/lt/TAD/e8906340104611e5b0d3e1beb7dd5516?jfwid=9tq147o4x
|
2020/06/05
|
|
Luxembourg
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/2114700.html
https://voltluxembourg.org/news/philippe-schannes-in-a-round-table-debate-on-rtl-radio
|
2024/11/21
|
|
Macedonia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
76a(11) As of the day of calling the elections until the election silence, the Public
Broadcasting Service is required to organize debates or hustings of the main ruling and
opposition political parties, as well as of the other participants in the election process.
Source:
Electoral Code of the Republic of Macedonia including 2021 amendments, art. 76-a (11): https://www.ifes.org/document/northmacedoniaelectoralcodeupdatesseptember2021pdf
|
2024/11/20
|
|
Madagascar
|
c. No
|
During the election campaign, the state media did not provide any significant opportunities, outside publicity time, whether free of charge or against payment, for a presentation of the parties' manifestos. The same applied to the main private electronic media, which were characterised by a lack of debate between candidates.
Source:
Schumann, B 2003 Madagascar National Assembly Elections 2002, Nordem Report 04/2003,[www] http://www.jus.uio.no/smr/english/about/programmes/nordem/publications/nordem-report/2003/04/nordem_report.html (2012)
|
2012/02/26
|
|
Malawi
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/02/06
|
|
Malaysia
|
d. No information available
|
|
2013/03/21
|
|
Maldives
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Commonwealth Expert Team on the Maldives 2009 Parliamentary Elections, p. 3, 22: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/files/210207/FileName/CommonwealthSecretariatMaldivesPeople%27sMajlis%28Parliamentary%29ElectionsReportoftheCommonwealthExpertTeam-9May2009.pdf (2013)
European Union Electoral Observation Mission for Parliamentary Elections 22 March 2014 Final Report (2014): http://eeas.europa.eu/archives/eueom/missions/2014/maldives/pdf/eu-eom-maldives2014-final-report_en.pdf
|
2019/02/13
|
|
Mali
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Monsieur Omar kamian du CSC.
Verified by Mamadou Seck, Forum Civil, [email protected], 2008-02-20
|
2008/03/28
|
|
Malta
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/05/22
|
|
Marshall Islands
|
d. No information available
|
|
2023/10/12
|
|
Martinique
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Elections office, Ministry of Interior, France, [email protected]
|
2007/01/14
|
|
Mauritania
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Decree No. 91-141 of 13 November 1991 regulating the procedures for the conduct of the elections and specifying the organization of elections of deputies to the National Assembly, art. 22;
|
2024/10/28
|
|
Mauritius
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/02/25
|
|
Mayotte
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Elections office, Ministry of Interior, France, [email protected]
|
2007/01/19
|
|
Mexico
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
INE is tasked with coordinating two mandatory electoral debates between the presidential candidates, which have to be broadcasted live on radio and TV.
Source:
Electoral Law: "Ley General de Instituciones y Procedimientos Electorales", art. 218: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/MX/mexico-lgipe-2024/
|
2024/04/12
|
|
Micronesia, Federated States of
|
d. No information available
|
|
2025/03/28
|
|
Moldova, Republic of
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
They are normally conducted also in local elections, referendums.
Article 70
(3) During the electoral campaign for parliamentary elections within the national constituency,
presidential elections and republican referenda, the national broadcasters shall be required, whereas the local/
regional ones shall be entitled to organise public debates. During the electoral campaign for parliamentary
elections within Single Member Constituencies, general local elections and local referenda, the local/regional
broadcasters shall be required, whereas the national ones shall be entitled to organise electoral debates. The
broadcasters shall define the format, length and the frequency of electoral debates, being made known to the
electoral bodies and to the candidates at least 3 calendar days before each live broadcast.
(4) During the electoral campaign for parliamentary elections, presidential elections and republican
referenda, the national broadcasters, which list is made public by the Audiovisual Coordinating Council, within
the first 3 days of the electoral period, shall provide, free-of-charge, 5 minutes of TV airtime and 10 minutes of
radio airtime to the candidates to present their electoral programmes and to inform the voters. The respective
airtime is granted apart from the airspace allotted for electoral advertising and debates.
Source:
Electoral Code of the Republic of Moldova 2019, article 70: 3-4.
|
2019/02/18
|
|
Monaco
|
c. No
|
Source:
Law No. 1299 of 15 July 2005 on freedom of expression;
Law 839 regulating communal and national elections, as amended;
Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly, Report on the observation of the legislative elections in Monaco (2008): http://assembly.coe.int/mainf.asp?Link=/documents/workingdocs/doc08/fdoc11535.htm (2012)
|
2023/09/13
|
|
Mongolia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
82.15 Programs related to political debates shall not be considered a campaign program but the program shall not cover one party only, and a number of independent candidates or more than four representatives from different parties or coalitions shall be covered in the program.
Source:
Electoral Law of 2016, Art. 82: https://www.legislationline.org/download/id/7739/file/Mongolia_law_elections_2015_am2016_en.pdf
|
2020/02/17
|
|
Montenegro
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Debates are generally broadcasted by the public tv channel (RTCG)
Source:
Final Report: Montenegro, Parliamentary Elections, OSCE (2020), p. 18
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/5/2/473532.pdf
|
2021/12/24
|
|
Morocco
|
d. No information available
|
Les radios et les télévisions publiques et privées peuvent continuer à diffuser des programmes liés à la campagne électorale jusqu’à la veille du jour du scrutin. Les radios et les télévisions privées ne sont pas tenues de participer à l’animation du débat public lié aux élections par une offre programmatique spécifique. Toutefois, si elles décident de couvrir la campagne ou d’organiser des débats électoraux, le cadre normatif fixé par la décision du CSCA leur est applicable. Translation: Public and private radio and television stations can continue to broadcast programs related to the election campaign until the day before election day. Private radio and television stations are not required to participate in the animation of public debate linked to the elections through a specific programmatic offer. However, if they decide to cover the campaign or organize electoral debates, the normative framework set by the decision of the CSCA is applicable to them.
Source:
"Le rôle de la Haute Autorité de la Communication Audiovisuelle dans la gestion du pluralisme d’expression politique dans les radios et les télévisions en période électorale (2021): https://www.haca.ma/sites/default/files/upload/Brochure_%C3%A9lections_2021_FR.pdf;"
|
2022/08/02
|
|
Mozambique
|
c. No
|
Source:
Law No. 8/2013 of 27 February 2013 regulating presidential and legislative elections (as amended by Law No. 12/2014): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/MZ/Mozambique-Law-No.-12-2014-of-13-April-2014/view (2014);
National Electoral Commission, Regulation n.º 60/CNE/2014 on the Distribution of Free Broadcast Time: http://www.stae.org.mz/Deliberacoes2014/CNE-%20Del%2060%20Regulamemto%20Tempo%20Antena%202014.pdf (2014).
|
2014/10/13
|
|
Namibia
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/02/25
|
|
Nauru
|
c. No
|
No reports of televised debates found.
|
2019/07/11
|
|
Nepal
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Official Website of the Television Journalist Association of Nepal: http://www.tvjnepal.com/about%20us.php (2012)
|
2018/04/06
|
|
Netherlands
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Television remains the main source of political information, and multiple debates are planned on public and private channels involving all parliamentary parties and other electoral contestants.
Source:
OSCE ODIHR Needs Assessment Mission Report, The Netherlands Parliamentary Elections 17 March 2021 (9)
https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/0/478501.pdf
|
2022/08/02
|
|
New Caledonia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Elections office, Ministry of Interior, France, [email protected]
|
2007/01/19
|
|
New Zealand
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
TVNZ Leaders' Debates
Source:
Elections New Zealand Official Website: https://www.elections.nz/guidance-and-rules/for-parties/about-the-broadcasting-allocation/
|
2024/09/03
|
|
Nicaragua
|
c. No
|
Source:
EU EOM Final Report, General and Parlacen Elections in Nicaragua, 2011:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/NI/nicaragua-final-report-general-elections-eu/ (2016).
|
2016/06/07
|
|
Niger
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Rapport final, élections législatives et présidentielle, EUOM (2011), p.26: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/NE/niger-raport-final-elections-legislatives-et/
|
2017/02/07
|
|
Nigeria
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Electoral Act 2010, art. 94: http://www.inecnigeria.org/downloads/?did=5 (2013);
EU Final Report on the Nigerian 2011 General Elections, p. 31, 34: http://www.eueom.eu/files/pressreleases/english/final-report-nigeria2011_en.pdf (2013)
|
2015/03/30
|
|
Niue
|
d. No information available
|
|
2014/06/23
|
|
Norway
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Televised debates between candidates/party representatives are normally conducted in general elections as well as in local elections.
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR Election Assessment Mission Report on Norwegian Parliamentary Elections (14 September 2009): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/norway/40529 (2012)
|
2012/05/22
|
|
Oman
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Basic Statute of the State, as amended by Royal Decree No. 99/2011: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Oman_2011.pdf?lang=en
ROYAL DECREE NO. 86/97 On the Formation of The Council of Oman: http://www.ilo.org/dyn/natlex/docs/ELECTRONIC/83508/92277/F2092950230/OMN83508.pdf (1997)
|
2025/05/12
|
|
Pakistan
|
c. No
|
In 2018, during the EU EOM of Pakistan, no debate between party leaders took place.
Source:
EU Election Observation Mission Report, 2018. https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/final_report_pakistan_2018_english_0.pdf
|
2024/02/05
|
|
Palau
|
d. No information available
|
Debates did occur for the 2016 presidential elections but there is no information as to whether this is a regular occurrence.
Source:
Pacific Note: http://www.pacificnote.com/h/category/2016%20Election%20News
|
2012/07/13
|
|
Palestine
|
c. No
|
Source:
Elections Law 2 September 2007 regulating general elections: http://www.elections.ps/Portals/0/pdf/Election_Law_%282007-Sept_02%29-EN.pdf (2013)
|
2013/04/09
|
|
Panama
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
The organisation of three debates is mandatory.
Source:
Electoral Code: “Código Electoral”, art. 275: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PA/panama-codigo-electoral-2023/
|
2024/12/05
|
|
Papua New Guinea
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Official Website of the Electoral Commission of Papua New Guinea: http://www.pngec.gov.pg/ (2012)
|
2017/03/16
|
|
Paraguay
|
c. No
|
Source:
Electoral Law: Código Electoral Paraguayo (Ley 834/96):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PY/paraguay-codigo-electoral-2014/ (2014)
|
2023/03/16
|
|
Peru
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Final Report of the European Union Election Observation Mission to the 2nd round of the Presidential Elections in Peru, 2011: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PE/peru-final-report-second-roud-of-the-presidential/ (2016);
“Elecciones 2020: Así serán los grupos de candidatos al Congreso que participarán en el debate del 12, 16 y 19 de enero”: https://diariocorreo.pe/politica/debate-congreso-2020-elecciones-congresales-enero-candidatos-jurado-nacional-de-elecciones-jne-san-borja-noticia/
|
2020/01/28
|
|
Philippines
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Republic Act No. 9006, Sec. 7.3: http://www.comelec.gov.ph/?r=References/RelatedLaws/ElectionLaws/OtherElectionLaws/RA9006 (2016)
|
2016/05/12
|
|
Poland
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Polish Television SA, hereinafter referred to as "Polish Television", has a duty to conduct debates between those representatives of electoral committees in elections to the Sejm or to the European Parliament, who have registered their candidates in all constituencies, and between candidates in the case of elections for the post of the President of the Republic. The time allocated to conducting of debate is not included in the air time, referred to in art. 117.
The National Broadcasting Council shall determine by regulation, after consultation with the Board of Polish Television, the detailed rules and procedures for carrying out the debates,
referred to in § 1, including the duration of the debates and the national program, in which the debate will be conducted, how to prepare and issue debates, and how to disseminate information
about the date of debates - in order to ensure respect for the principle of equality of presenting positions and opinions of the debate.
Source:
Election Code: Act of 5 January 2011 on Election Code to the Sejm of the Republic of Poland and to the Senate of the Republic of Poland, article 120: https://legislationline.org/sites/default/files/documents/40/POL_Election%20Code.pdf
|
2024/11/13
|
|
Portugal
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
|
2024/10/10
|
|
Puerto Rico
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Electoral Law: “Código Electoral de Puerto Rico de 2020”, art. 5.3: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PR/puerto-rico-ley-58-2020-codigo-electoral-2020/ ;
Political Financing Law: “Ley para la fiscalización del financiamiento de campaña política en Puerto Rico”: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PR/puerto-rico-ley-222-2011-fiscalizacion-financiamiento-politico-58-2020/
|
2020/11/03
|
|
Qatar
|
e. Not applicable
|
Source:
Constitution: https://www.gco.gov.qa/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/permanent_constitution_state_qatar_en.pdf
|
2025/05/08
|
|
Romania
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Parliamentary Elections, 9 December 2012 OSCE/ODIHR Election Expert Team Final Report, stated that candidates often avoided participating in televised
debates or discussions of campaign issues with opponents. Media representatives also confirmed the reluctance of candidates to
participate in televised debates.
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR Limited Election Observation Mission Final Report on the Presidential elections (22 November and 6 December 2009) in Romania (Warsaw, 2010): http://www.osce.org/documents/odihr/2010/02/42767_en.pdf
Parliamentary Elections, 9 December 2012, OSCE/ODIHR Election Expert Team Final Report: http://www.osce.org/odihr/98757?download=true
|
2014/10/29
|
|
Russian Federation
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Electoral campaign on TV and radio channels and in the print media shall be conducted in the form of public debates in particular.
Source:
Electoral Law: Russian Federation Federal Law on the Election of the President of the Russian Federation, amended as of July 24, 2007, art. 49: https://legislationline.org/taxonomy/term/12319
Federal Law On Elections of Deputies to the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation amended as of April, 5, 2016, art. 62: https://legislationline.org/sites/default/files/documents/34/Law%20on%20Parliamentary%20Elections%20of%20the%20Russian%20Federation%20as%20of%20February%202014.pdf
|
2024/03/25
|
|
Rwanda
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
EU Observation Mission, Final Report on the Legislative Elections of 15-18 September 2008: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-final-report-legislative-elections-to-the/view
|
2017/03/03
|
|
Réunion
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Elections office, Ministry of Interior, France, [email protected]
|
2007/01/14
|
|
Saint Lucia
|
d. No information available
|
|
2013/07/16
|
|
Samoa
|
d. No information available
|
|
2021/04/10
|
|
San Marino
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Codification of provisions for the regulation of electoral campaigns, Art. 7 (Art. 22 of Law 1/2007 as it has been amended by art. 9 of Law 1/2008)
|
2012/05/28
|
|
Sao Tome and Principe
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Electoral Law of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe n.º 11/90 of 26 November 1990, as amended (latest amendment - 2006): http://www.stj.st/download/Lei_Eleitoral.pdf (2016)
|
2016/06/28
|
|
Saudi Arabia
|
e. Not applicable
|
Source:
Shura Council Law: http://www.shura.gov.sa/wps/wcm/connect/ShuraEn/internet/Laws+and+Regulations/The+Shura+Council+and+the+rules+and+regulations+job/Shura+Council+Law/ (2012);
The Basic Law of Governance: http://www.boe.gov.sa/ViewSystemDetails.aspx?lang=en&SystemID=4 (2012)
|
2012/08/20
|
|
Senegal
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Electoral Code 2012, art. LO.130: http://www.elections2012.sn/images/stories/CE2012.pdf (2017);
EU Final Report on the 2012 Senegal Presidential Election, p. 28: http://eeas.europa.eu/eueom/pdf/missions/final-report-senegal-2012_fr.pdf (2017)
|
2024/10/25
|
|
Serbia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR Limited Election Observation Mission Final Report on the Parliamentary and Early Presidential Elections of the Republic of Serbia, Warsaw 31 July 2012.
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/RS/serbia-final-report-parliamentary-and-presidential/view
|
2022/10/15
|
|
Seychelles
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Presidential debates began to be broadcasted in 2020. There are no legislative debates regularly conducted.
Source:
Electoral Commission Seychelles Election Report 2020
https://ecs.sc/election-reports/
"The Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) aired its first Presidential Debates which saw the participation of all Presidential candidates, this was also complemented by candidate profiles."
|
2025/03/03
|
|
Sierra Leone
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Final Report, General Elections of 17 November 2012, The Carter Center (2012): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/SL/sierra-leone-final-report-general-elections-of-17/
|
2017/01/16
|
|
Singapore
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Parliamentary Elections Act: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/SG/singapore-parliamentary-elections-act-2011/view (2017)
Presidential Elections Act: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/SG/singapore-president-elections-act-2011/view (2017)
Constitution: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Singapore_2010?lang=en (2017)
|
2017/03/24
|
|
Slovakia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Slovakia Parliamentary Elections September 20 & 21, 2002. Election Report, Pages 2 & 5: https://www.ndi.org/node/21897
|
2024/10/25
|
|
Slovenia
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
"Apart from campaign coverage in the news, ‘RTV Slovenia’ provided free airtime to parties standing in all constituencies, consisting of direct presentations to voters.41 Special ‘RTV Slovenia’ election programmes included six debates for the above parties. The first debate only included parliamentary parties and a second debate was held among non-parliamentary parties.<...> The final debate was conducted among all 13 parties standing countrywide"
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR Election Assessment Mission Final Report on Early Elections of the National Assembly, 4 December 2011 in Republic of Slovenia. Warsaw (2012). Available at: http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/Slovenia/87786
|
2017/03/30
|
|
Solomon Islands
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
National Parliament Electoral Provisions Act (2010 Consolidated Version): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/SB/solomon-islands-national-parliament-electoral-3/view (2014).
|
2019/03/01
|
|
Somalia
|
c. No
|
Source:
Transitional Constitution of 2012:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/SO/somalia-provisional-constitution-of-2012/view
|
2016/11/25
|
|
South Africa
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Source for 2014 Elections: South Africa: Elections Debate focusses on poverty (2014): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/ZA/south-africa-elections-debate-focusses-on-poverty/view
|
2014/05/01
|
|
South Sudan
|
d. No information available
|
|
2021/06/02
|
|
Spain
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
http://elpais.com/tag/debate_elecciones_generales/a/
|
2025/04/03
|
|
Sri Lanka
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Where two or more recognized political parties or independent groups agree to debate any matter of national importance, it shall be the duty of the Director-General of Broadcasting to afford broadcasting facilities to such parties or groups, so however that the time permitted for such de bate shall not exceed the time allotted to each such party or group.
Source:
Parliamentary Election Act (No.1 1981), Art. 126 (3);
Commonwealth election observer group: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/shared_asp_files/uploadedfiles/AC871F4B-5A17-4A57-AA39-31045BD21C61_SRILANKAPRESIDENTIALELECTION17NOVEMBER2005-REPORTOFTHECOMMONWEALTHEXPERTTEAM.pdf
|
2012/06/14
|
|
Sudan
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
The National Elections Act 2008, art. 66, 69: http://www.gurtong.org/ResourceCenter/documents/Reports/Elections-09/nationalelectionsact2008.pdf (2012);
EU Election Observation Mission to the Executive and Legislative Elections of 11-15 April 2010 in Sudan, Final Report: http://www.eueom.eu/files/dmfile/final-report-eu-eom-sudan-2010_en.pdf (2012)
|
2012/09/04
|
|
Suriname
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Electoral Observation Mission for the General Elections in the Republic of Suriname on May 25, 2010: http://www.oas.org/es/sap/docs/deco/2010/SURINAME_%20MAY25_%202010_e.pdf (2012)
|
2025/03/28
|
|
Swaziland
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/02/24
|
|
Sweden
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
OSCE/ODIHR NEEDS Assessment mission report - General Elections of 19 September 2010, page 12: http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/70947 (2012)
|
2014/08/04
|
|
Switzerland
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Even though political propaganda and political advertisement on radio and television is not permitted, debates and discussions between parties and candidates are conducted during the pre-election period.
Source:
Federal Law of 24 March 2006, regulating radio and television, Art. 10, 12, 24:
http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/784_40/index.html (2014);
|
2025/03/28
|
|
Syrian Arab Republic
|
d. No information available
|
|
2014/06/03
|
|
Taiwan
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
For the election of President and Vice President, the Central Election Commission shall provide the candidates with hours to express their politics through national wireless TV channel at public expenses, and each group of candidates shall have not less than 30 minutes every time, and the designated TV stations may not refuse. The operating regulations shall be prescribed by the Central Election Commission.
With the consent of two or more groups of candidates, an individual or association may hold a national wireless TV debate; the TV station shall undertake such debate and may apply to the Central Election Commission for subsidy. Regulations governing the subsidy shall be prescribed by the Central Election Commission.
The TV debate for President referred to in the preceding Paragraph may be held up to three times, and every time each candidate has up to 30 minutes. The TV debate for Vice President may be held similarly, but shall be held only once.
The candidates shall be responsible for the contents of the politics or debate referred to in Paragraphs One and Two by themselves.
Source:
International Committee for Fair Elections in Taiwan, Report on the National Election in Taiwan, January 14, 2012: http://www.taiwanelections.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Taiwan-2012-Elections-IEOM-Final-Report.pdf (2012)
Article 45 Presidential and Vice Presidential Election and Recall Act
https://law.moj.gov.tw/ENG/LawClass/LawAll.aspx?pcode=D0020053
|
2020/04/13
|
|
Tajikistan
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Agitation during elections is conducted in the following ways:
- Through Mass Media.
- Conducting of public events (conferences, meetings with citizens, debates and discussions).
Source:
Constitutional Law On Elections to the Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan, amended as of July 26, 2014, article 39.
|
2025/02/18
|
|
Tanzania, United Republic of
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Final Report of the EU Election Observation Mission to the 2010 General Elections in Tanzania, p. 26: http://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/tanzania/documents/page_content/tanzania_final_report_final_en.pdf (2013)
|
2015/10/26
|
|
Thailand
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Report of the International Election Observation Mission by The Asian Network for Free Elections on the General Elections of 3 July 2011 in Thailand: http://anfrel.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/ThaiEOMReport_Edit_4-final_edit.pdf (2017)
|
2023/10/11
|
|
Timor-Leste
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
EU Election Observation Mission, Final Report on the Parliamentary Elections of 2012, p. 19: https://www.eods.eu/library/EUEOM%20FR%20TIMOR%20LESTE%2028.09.2012_en.pdf
|
2024/11/14
|
|
Togo
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Electoral Code No. 2000-07 as amended, art. 187: http://www.ifes.org/~/media/Files/Publications/Election%20Law/2005/IFES_19/EL00062.pdf (2013)
|
2013/01/10
|
|
Tonga
|
d. No information available
|
Source:
Electoral Commission Act 2010, Art. 10 (2 k): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/tonga-electoral-commission-act-2010/view (2010)
|
2021/09/15
|
|
Trinidad and Tobago
|
c. No
|
The Trinidad and Tobago Debates Commission was created in April 2010 as an independent, autonomous, not for profit organisation. Has successfully organised debates for Local Government and Tobago House of Assembly Elections; however, no debates for General Elections have taken place.
Source:
Debates International, Trinidad & Tobago Debates Commission: https://www.debatesinternational.org/partner/trinidad-tobago-debates-commission/
|
2020/08/22
|
|
Tunisia
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Organic Law n° 2014-16 of 26 May 2014 on Elections and Referenda, art. 65: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/TN/tunisia-organic-law-on-elections-and-referenda/view (2014)
|
2019/08/05
|
|
Turkey
|
d. No information available
|
Constitution, art. 102 provides that President is elected by the members of Turkish Grand National Assembly. No information is available on the question whether there are debates conducted during legislative elections.
Source:
|
2014/08/04
|
|
Turkmenistan
|
c. No
|
No information about the organization of televised debates is available in the observation mission reports of the OSCE/ODIHR.
Source:
Needs Assessment Mission Report on the Parliamentary Elections in Turkmenistan (OSCE/ODIHR, 2012): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/86861 (2013);
Needs Assessment Mission Report on Early parliamentary Elections in Turkmenistan (OSCE/ODIHR, 2008): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/turkmenistan/34606 (2013);
Needs Assessment Mission Report on the Parliamentary Elections in Turkmenistan (OSCE/ODIHR, 1999): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/turkmenistan/23724
Needs Assessment Mission Report on the Presidential Election in Turkmenistan (OSCE/ODIHR, 2007): http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/turkmenistan/23722
|
2013/03/06
|
|
Turks and Caicos Islands
|
d. No information available
|
|
2020/10/08
|
|
Tuvalu
|
d. No information available
|
|
2012/06/20
|
|
Uganda
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Parliamentary Elections Act as amended in 2010, art. 100 (2-d-ii);
http://www.ec.or.ug/docs/parliamentary%20election%20Act%202005.pdf (2016);
Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, art. 67 (2):
http://www.ec.or.ug/docs/Constitution_1995.pdf(2016)
|
2016/02/29
|
|
Ukraine
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Law on Elections of the President of Ukraine, (last amended in 2019) art. 62:
https://zakon.rada.gov.ua/laws/show/474-14
The Law on Elections of People's Deputies of Ukraine (last amended in 2019), art. 66 (5):
https://zakon.rada.gov.ua/laws/show/en/4061-17
|
2019/03/12
|
|
United Arab Emirates
|
d. No information available
|
There are no political parties in the UAE.
Although the UAE’s constitution provides for some freedom of expression, the government restricts this right in practice. The 1980 Publications and Publishing Law,considered one of the most restrictive press laws in the Arab world, regulates all aspects of the media.
Source:
Freedom House: https://freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2015/united-arab-emirates (2015);
Federal Law No. 15, 1980 governing publications and publishing:
http://www.ilo.org/dyn/natlex/docs/WEBTEXT/62110/65257/E80ARE01.htm (2015).
|
2019/09/25
|
|
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
UK Parliament House of Commons Library - General Election television debates research briefing
https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/sn05241/
History and future of TV Election Debates in the UK (2017):
https://historyandpolicy.org/opinion-articles/articles/the-history-and-future-of-televised-election-debates-in-britain/
|
2025/06/23
|
|
United States of America
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
The Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD):
https://www.debates.org/about-cpd/
|
2020/10/21
|
|
Uruguay
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
|
Source:
Ley de obligatoriedad de un debate entre candidaturas presidenciales (Ley No. 19.827), https://www.gub.uy/corte-electoral/institucional/normativa/ley-n-19827-fecha-18092019-ley-obligatoriedad-debate-entre-candidatos (2019).
|
2024/12/19
|
|
Uzbekistan
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Presidential: The CEC required the five national state TV stations to reserve time for debates among the contestants on every Saturday during the campaign period; however, such debates did not take place; Parliamentary: For the first time, televised debates among the representatives of the five parties were organized. A total of 51 debates took place.
Source:
OSCE ODIHR Election Observation Mission Final Report, Republic of Uzbekistan, Presidential Election 24 October 2021: https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/9/e/516435_0.pdf; OSCE ODIHR Election Observation Mission Final Report, Republic of Uzbekistan, Parliamentary Elections 22 December 2019: https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/9/3/452170_1.pdf
|
2024/08/22
|
|
Vanuatu
|
d. No information available
|
|
2025/04/03
|
|
Venezuela
|
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
HispanTV: “Se realiza primer debate de candidatos parlamentarios de Venezuela”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06biU5RumRI
|
2020/11/15
|
|
Viet Nam
|
c. No
|
Source:
Constitution of 1992 as amended, art. 4: http://www.moj.gov.vn/vbpq/en/Lists/Vn%20bn%20php%20lut/View_Detail.aspx?ItemID=10450 (2016);
Law of 1997 on Election of Deputies to the National Assembly, as amended and supplemented by laws No. 31/2001/QH10 and No: 63/2010/QH12, art. 52, 53:
http://www.moj.gov.vn/vbpq/en/lists/vn%20bn%20php%20lut/view_detail.aspx?itemid=2526 (2016)
|
2016/06/20
|
|
Virgin Islands, British
|
d. No information available
|
|
2019/03/05
|
|
Virgin Islands, U.S.
|
d. No information available
|
|
2009/08/14
|
|
Wallis and Futuna
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
Elections office, Ministry of Interior, France, [email protected]
|
2007/01/19
|
|
Western Sahara
|
d. No information available
|
|
2009/08/14
|
|
Yemen
|
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
|
Source:
General Elections and Referendum Law of 2001, art. 47: http://www.scer.org.ye/english/generalelectionslaw.htm (2012)
|
2012/08/22
|
|
Zambia
|
d. No information available
|
|
2016/06/28
|
|
Zanzibar
|
d. No information available
|
|
2016/04/05
|
|
Zimbabwe
|
c. No
|
Source:
European Union Election Observation Mission Final Report on Zimbabwe Harmonised Elections 2018
https://www.veritaszim.net/sites/veritas_d/files/EU%20Election%20Observers%20Final%20Report%20Zimbabwe%202018-.pdf
|
2023/09/25
|
