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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Section 111: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch03.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . The legislature (national/subnational)
Comments: A decree will be passed on defining the constituencies, electoral districts and their boundaries, and the number of sub-committees required to carry out the process of the elections and ballot counting.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2021/03/23
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population e . Geographic size of district f . Communities of interest/cultural concerns
Comments:
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch03.htm
Constitution, article 10: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Micronesia_1990
Verified: 2025/03/28
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
g . Not applicable
Comments: No criteria mentioned.
Source: Decree number 14, 2002: Exercising Political Rights, part 3, art. 17.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2024/11/25
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . Legislature (1st chamber)
Comments: The congress is responsible for drawing electoral boundaries.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch03.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
m . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Decree number 14, 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2024/11/25
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
a . Head of State is the Head of Government d . Indirectly elected by legislature
Comments: Art. 10, Sec. 1: The executive power of the national government is vested in the President of the Federated States of Micronesia. He is elected by Congress for a term of four years by a majority vote of all the members.
Art. 10, Sec. 3. a.: [The President]is head of state of the Federated States of Micronesia;
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Art. 10, Section 1 and 3: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article10.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
c . Indirectly elected by legislature/chosen by parliament
Comments: Art. 10, Sec. 1: The executive power of the national government is vested in the President of the Federated States of Micronesia. He is elected by Congress for a term of four years by a majority vote of all the members. He may not serve for more than 2 consecutive terms.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Art. 10, Section 1:
http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article10.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Art. 10, Sec. 1: The executive power of the national government is vested in the President of the Federated States of Micronesia.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Art. 10: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article10.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: Art. 9, Sec. 1: The legislative power of the national government is vested in the Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Article. 9, Section 1: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article9.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: A plurality system in single member constituencies is used in parliamentary elections. A state may provide that one of its seats is set aside for a traditional leader who shall be chosen as provided by statute for a 2-year term, in lieu of one representative elected on the basis of population. The number of congressional districts shall be reduced and reapportioned accordingly.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Article. 9, Section 8, 10, and 11: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article9.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
k . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments: Not applicable. There is only one chamber.
Source:
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: Art. 9, Sec. 8: The Congress consists of one member elected at large from each state on the basis of state equality, and additional members elected from congressional districts in each state apportioned by population.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Article. 9, Section 8: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article9.htm (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Art. 9, Sec. 11: A State may provide that one of its seats is set aside for a traditional leader who shall be chosen as provided by statute for a 2 year term, in lieu of one representative elected on the basis of population. The number of congressional districts shall be reduced and reapportioned accordingly.
However, it is not clear as to what a 'traditional leader' means.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Article. 9, Section 11: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article9.htm (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
c . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments: simple majority (plurality vote)
Source: 1. Burnell Edwards, FSM National Elections Director, interview at PIANZEA workshop April 2002;
2. https://www.electionguide.org/elections/id/3627/. (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments: simple majority
Source: 1. Burnell Edwards, FSM National Elections Director, interview at PIANZEA workshop April 2002;
2. https://www.electionguide.org/elections/id/3627/. (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: The Congress consists of 1 member from each State (Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae and Yap) who serve a 4 year term and 10 Senators representing 10 single member constituencies of aproximately equal population size who serve 2 year terms. Therefore, elections are held biennially in each odd numbered year.
Source: 1. FSMC, Title 9. National Elections, S.104;
2.Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Article. 9, Section 8: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article9.htm (2021)
3.FSM National Election Office: https://www.fsmned.fm/voters_instructions.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/03/24
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments: 7 AM to 5 PM
Source: FSMC, Title 9. National Elections, S.803
Verified: 2003/11/09
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/03/24
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments: Electoral law outlined in the constitution Article 6 and 9, also governed by detailed electoral codes.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Art. 6; Art. 9, Section 8, 9, 10, 11: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/constitution.htm
The National Election Code: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/
Verified: 2025/03/28
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: 2014 version
Source: Code of the Federated States of Micronesia (2014 edition): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/indexcode2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/25
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections
Comments: Only national election is mentioned in the constitution.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Art. 6; Art. 9, Section 8, 9, 10, 11: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/constitution.htm
The National Election Code: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/
Verified: 2025/03/28
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: Eligible Voters:
Every Citizen of the Federated States of Micronesia is eligible to vote in a National Election if he or she has fulfilled the following requirements:
(1) is 18 years of age or older on the day of the election;
(2) is a resident or domiciliary of the State of Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk, or Yap and a registered voter therein for at least 30 days immediately preceding the election;
(3) is not currently under a judgment of mental incompetency or insanity;
(4) is not currently under parole, probation, or sentence for any felony for which he or she has been convicted by any court of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Trust Territory, or any court within the jurisdiction of the United States; and
(5) is not currently disqualified to vote under section 305 of this title.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Art. 6, Section 1: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/constitution.htm
The National Election Code, Title. 9, Section 102: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch01.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/03/25
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
b . EMB
Comments: A petition for recount may be filed by any candidate in an election who believes that there was fraud or error committed in the casting, canvassing, or return of the votes cast at said election. The petition shall be filed with the National Election Director.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Section 901 (1): http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch09.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
a . President
Comments: The President shall appoint one National Election Director with the advice and consent of the Congress.
Source: The National Elections Code, Title 9, Section 301(1): http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch03.htm (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/25
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates c . Voters
Comments: Any person may file an oral or written complaint of any election irregularity with a member of the board of election present at the polling place.
A petition for recount may be filed by any candidate in an election who believes that there was fraud or error committed in the casting, canvassing, or return of the votes cast at said election. The petition shall be filed with the National Election Director.
Source: The National Election code, Title 9, Section 807: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch08.htm (2021);
The National Election Code, Title 9, Section 901 (1): http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch09.htm (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/25
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments: The aggrieved candidate may, within five days after receipt of the decision of the National Election Director, appeal his case to the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Section 903: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch09.htm (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/25
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
a . Election Management Body e . Legislature
Comments: Proposals need to be ratified by the President. This seems to be a convention as there seems to be nothing in the law which legislates this.
Source: Burnell Edwards, FSM National Elections Director, interview at PIANZEA workshop April 2002
Verified: 2005/02/17
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level
Comments: The National Election Director shall have responsibility for the overall supervision and administration of all National Elections, and shall perform such duties as are prescribed by law.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Section 302: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch03.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
a . The President
Comments: The President shall appoint one National Election Director with the advice and consent of the Congress. The National Election Director shall serve until resignation, or until removed from office upon a determination by the President that such removal is deemed necessary
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Section 301: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T09_Ch03.htm (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/26
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: Within one year prior to a general election, or 40 days prior to a special election, Congress shall appropriate a sum adequate to defray the administrative and contingent expenses of conducting National Elections as provided by this title.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 1, Section 107: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch1_2014.html#107
The Budget Procedures Act of 1981, Chapter 1, Section 103: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title55/T55_Ch01.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
h . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
d . Other
Comments: Title 9. Section 302/1/b: The National Election Director shall serve until resignation, or until removed from office upon a determination by the President that such removal is necessary. An appointment of a successor shall then be made by the President with the advice and consent of the Congress.
Title 9. Section 302/2/b: National election commissioners shall serve for a term of four years, which term shall commence upon appointment, subject to removal by the President for cause; provided, that they shall be employed full-time and compensated pursuant to employment contracts during their four-year terms only for such period(s) of time as deemed necessary by the National Election Director for the purpose of preparing for and administering an upcoming National Election.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 3, Section 302: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch3_2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
d . Presidential/ Prime Minister appointment
Comments: The President shall appoint one National Election Director with the advice and consent of the Congress.
The National Election Director shall have the responsibility for the overall supervision and administration of all National Elections.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 3, Section 302 and Section 303: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch3_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/29
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
a . Governmental
Comments: The President shall appoint one National Election Director with the advice and consent of the Congress.
The National Election Director shall have the responsibility for the overall supervision and administration of all National Elections.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 3, Section 302 and Section 303: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch3_2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: Title 9, Sect 302/2/a: The President shall appoint a national election commissioner for each of the four States with the advice and consent of Congress.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 3, Section 302: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch3_2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
e . No Information Available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2025/03/28
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State b . Head of Government e . Legislature
Comments: Sect. 302/1/a: The President shall appoint one National Election Director with the advice and consent of the Congress.
Sect. 302/2/a: The President shall appoint a national election commissioner for each of the four States with the advice and consent of Congress.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 3, Section 302: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch3_2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
m . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2025/03/28
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
d . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2025/03/28
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
m . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2025/03/28
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
b . Media advertisement g . Internet
Comments: Voter instruction on official election office website and official Facebook page
Source: FSM National Election Office: https://www.fsmned.fm/voters_instructions.html (2021);
FSM National Election Office Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FSMNED/ (2021)
Verified: 2021/03/30
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments: Undertaken at the schools
Source: Burnell Edwards, FSM National Elections Director, interview at PIANZEA workshop July 2002.
Verified: 2005/02/17
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Burnell Edwards, FSM National Elections Director, interview at PIANZEA workshop July 2002.
Verified: 2005/02/17
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments: Every citizen of the Federated States of Micronesia is eligible to vote in a National Election if he or she has fulfilled the following requirements: (2) is 18 years of age or older on the day of the election.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 1, Section 103: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch1_2014.html#103
Verified: 2025/03/28
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship b . Period of Residence e . Other
Comments: Every Citizen of the Federated States of Micronesia is eligible to vote in a National Election if he or she has fulfilled the following requirements:
(1) is living;
(2) is 18 years of age or older on the day of the election;
(3) is a Resident of a State;
(4) has been a Registered Voter for at least 30 days immediately preceding Election Day;
(5) is not currently under a judgment of mental incompetency or insanity; and
(6) is not currently under parole, probation, or sentence for any felony for which he or she has been convicted by any court of the Federated States of Micronesia.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 1, Section 103: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch1_2014.html#103
Verified: 2025/03/28
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal Incarceration c . Detention d . Mental disability
Comments: Eligible voter:
is not currently under a judgment of mental incompetency or insanity; and
is not currently under parole, probation, or sentence for any felony for which he or she has been convicted by any court of the Federated States of Micronesia.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 1, Section 103: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch1_2014.html#103 (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/05
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
a . Central Government Department (specify)
Comments: The National Election Director have responsibility to maintain, update and preserve the National Voter Register;
Each national election commissioner, subject to the authority of the National Election Director, have responsibility to register voters for National Elections.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 3, Section 303 (5) and 304 (5): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch3_2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments: There shall be one unified National Voter Register for all of the Federated States of Micronesia. The National Voter Register shall be used to generate the Signature Lists for the various Polling Places. On a periodic basis, the National Election Director shall reconcile the National Voter Register with the State Voter Register thereby ensuring that all Registered Voters on the State Voter Registers are also listed on the National Voter Register.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 4, Section 401: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch4_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
c . Periodically (or before each election)
Comments: Thirty days before a National Election, the National Election Director shall perform a final reconciliation of the State and National Voter Registers before the Signature Lists are generated from the National Voter Register.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 4, Section 401 (5): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch4_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
e . Appearance by voter at registration office h . Mobile election registrar
Comments: A person shall register to vote at a National Election Office or State Election Office in the State in which the person is a Resident. The national election commissioners, with the approval of the National Election Director, may designate other locations within a State where a person may register to vote or may conduct mobile registration drives.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 4, Section 403 (2): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch4_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: No person shall be entitled to vote in any National Election, or to be listed upon the National Voter Register, or upon any Signature List, who fails to register to vote with the National Election Office or State Election Office at least 30 days prior to Election Day.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 4, Section 402 (1): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch4_2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: There are no political parties in the FSM.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Ch. 2, Section 202: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch2_2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence f . Registration j . Other
Comments: To be eligible for election as a Member of the Congress, a person shall:
(1) have attained the age of 30 years by Election Day;
(2) be a Resident of the State from which he or she is seeking election on Election Day and for at least five years prior to that date;
(3) be a Citizen of the Federated States of Micronesia on Election Day and for at least 15 years prior to that date;
(4) not be under a judgment of mental incompetency or insanity; and
(5) not have been convicted of a felony by a State or National Court of the Federated States of Micronesia or its predecessor Government of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
Constitutional Amendment on Eligibility to Run for Congress was passed and ratified in 2023 which slightly modifies eligibility to only those who are citizens by birth are eligible to become a Senator in Congress
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia, Art. 9, Section 9: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/constitution.htm
The National Election Code, Title 9, Ch. 2, Section 201, 202: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch2_2014.html
https://gov.fm/all-nine-proposed-amendments-to-the-fsm-constitution-for-the-july-2023-referendum/
https://gov.fm/president-simina-issues-presidential-proclamation-for-the-amendments-to-the-constitution-of-the-federated-states-of-micronesia/
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence f . Registration j . Other
Comments: The president must be a member of congress for a 4 year term, be a citizen of the Federated States of Micronesia by birth, and a resident of the Federated States of Micronesia for at least 15 years.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia, Article 10, Section 4: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article10.htm (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration b . Detention k . Mental health problems
Comments: To be eligible for election as a Member of the Congress, a person shall:
not be under a judgment of mental incompetency or insanity, and not have been convicted of a felony by a State or National Court of the Federated States of Micronesia or its predecessor Government of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 2, Section 201: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch2_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration b . Detention k . Mental health problems
Comments: To be eligible for election as a Member of the Congress, a person shall:
not be under a judgment of mental incompetency or insanity, and not have been convicted of a felony by a State or National Court of the Federated States of Micronesia or its predecessor Government of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 2, Section 201: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch2_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
e . In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments: The President and Vice President may be elected only after the Congress is fully organized. To be eligible for the office of the President and Vice President, a Member must be a member of Congress for a four-year term, and shall also have been a resident for at least 15 years and a Citizen by birth of the Federated States of Micronesia.
Source: The National Election Code, Ch. 2, Section 201, 202, 206: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch2_2014.html
Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia, Art. 9, Section 9; Art. 10, Section 4: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/constitution.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: A nomination paper shall have been filed in the office of the national election commissioner of the State concerned. There shall be deposited with the nomination paper a filing fee of $100. Any person is elected as a write-in candidate shall, after certification of the election results, pay a $100 fee and submit the affidavit, but not the petition, required by this section.
Source: FSMC, Title 9. National elections, Chapter 2 Section 202: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch2_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
a . No
Comments: There are no political parties and no provision regulating candidates' funding.
Source: FSM, Title 9 "National elections", The National Election Code: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/indexcode2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments: There are no parties.
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: There are no parties.
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments: There are no political parties and no provision regulating candidates' funding.
Source: FSM, Title 9 "National elections", The National Election Code: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/indexcode2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: There are no parties
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments: There are no political parties and no provision regulating candidates' funding.
Source: FSM, Title 9 "National elections", The National Election Code: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/indexcode2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments: There are no parties
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) d . Categorical (only one mark allowed) e . Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote) f . Same ballot papers used nationwide g . Different ballots used in different constituencies j . Candidate photos in color m . Organized alphabetically p . Bilingual
Comments:
Source: FSMC, Title 9. National elections, Chapter 8.
Pacific Election Administration Compared: Andrew Ellis (International IDEA)and Alistair Legge (PIANZEA), 2005.
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
r . Other
Comments: R. Other. The president is elected indirectly by majority vote through Congress
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Article 10, section 1: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article10.htm (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
c . Special counting centres
Comments: After all voting is completed, all ballot boxes shall be secured and locked. The locked boxes and all other supplies provided to the Polling Places by the national election commissioner shall be collected by election officials and delivered to the national election commissioner of the State concerned;
The National Election Director, upon the recommendation of the national election commissioner of the relevant State, shall establish counting and tabulation committees in each State.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 7, Section 709, 710 (1): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch7_2014.html#709
Verified: 2025/03/28
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box
Comments: No detailed information available.
Each counting and tabulation committee shall publicly count and tally all votes cast and determine the acceptability thereof, provided. The counting and tabulation of ballots cast shall begin upon receipt of the ballot box, if such activity is centralized, or upon the close of the Polling Place, if such activity is decentralized.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 7, Section 710: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch7_2014.html#710 (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
e . National level
Comments: Upon completion of the counting and tabulation of election results by the national election commissioners, and no later than three days after the unofficial election results of all four States have been received by the National Election Director, the National Election Director shall certify the election results and shall declare as the winning candidates.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 7, Section 711: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch7_2014.html#710 (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
c . Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: Seats are allocated at state level. The Congress consists of one member elected at large from each state on the basis of state equality, and additional members from congressional districts in each state apportioned by population.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Article 9 Section 8: http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/article9.htm (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
h . Other
Comments: No information available
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
h . Other
Comments: No information available
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
j . Other
Comments: No information available
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request
Comments: (1) A petition for a recount may be filed by any candidate who believes that there was fraud or error committed in the canvassing, casting or return of votes in a National Election.
(2) If a candidate believes that there was fraud or error committed in the canvassing, casting or return of votes in a National Election which cannot be corrected by recount, a candidate may petition for a revote, either in a Congressional Election District as a whole, or in the portion thereof where the fraud or error took place.
(3) Any other petition challenging the acceptability of a vote, or votes may be filed by any Registered Voter who believes that there was fraud or error committed in the canvassing, casting or return of votes in a National Election. A petition under this subsection shall include a petition by a candidate challenging a decision of the National Election Director made under subsection 303(10) of this title.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 8, Section 801: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch8_2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
b . An individual candidate
Comments: A petition for a recount may be filed by any candidate who believes that there was fraud or error committed in the canvassing, casting or return of votes in a National Election.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 8, Section 801 (1): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch8_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/06
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
a . National Election Management body
Comments: A recount shall be held by the counting and tabulating committee within ten days after the decision of the National Election Director or order by the Supreme Court.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 8, Section 805 (2): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch8_2014.html (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/07
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Public announcement of the unofficial results of the counting and tabulation of the ballots by each counting and tabulation committee shall be made by the national election commissioner in the manner set forth in regulations promulgated pursuant to this title.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 7, Section 701 (4): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch7_2014.html#710 (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/07
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Upon certification and declaration of the results, the National Election Director shall immediately provide to all election candidates notice of such certification in the most practical and expeditious manner available.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 7, Section 711 (2): http://fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch7_2014.html#710 (2021)
Verified: 2021/04/07
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments: No information available
Source:
Verified: 2021/04/07
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
a . Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance
Comments: National Election Code, Ch. 1, Sect. 109:
(1) If any broadcast or print media, either public or private, permits a candidate in a National Election, or his or her supporters, to use its facilities or publications, it shall afford access on an equal basis to all opposing candidates, or their supporters, without censorship. No obligation is imposed under this section upon any broadcast or print media to allow the use of its facilities or publications by any candidate in a National Election. Appearance by, or mention of, a candidate in any bona fide news story or interview shall not be deemed to be use of a broadcast facility or publication within the meaning of this section.
(2) All broadcast and print media carrying campaign advertisements shall clearly identify each campaign advertisement and shall indicate the candidate, or supporters of the candidate, responsible for the advertisement.
(3) No broadcast or print media shall permit use of its facilities or publications by any candidate in a National Election, or his or her supporters, on Election Day.
Source: The National Election Code, Title 9, Chapter 1, Section 109: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/title09/T9_Ch1_2014.html#109
Verified: 2025/03/28
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
d . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2025/03/28
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
g . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2025/03/28
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments: No political party in FSM
Source: FSM, Title 9 "National elections", The National Election Code: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/code/indexcode2014.html
Verified: 2025/03/28
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Constitution, Art. 1, Sec. 3.: Territory may be added to the Federated States of Micronesia upon approval of Congress, and by vote of the inhabitants of the area, if any, and by vote of the people of the Federated States of Micronesia.
Constitution, Art. 14:
Sect. 1. An amendment to this Constitution may be proposed by a constitutional convention, popular initiative, or Congress in a manner provided by law.
Sect. 2. At least every 10 years, Congress shall submit to the voters the question: "Shall there be a convention to revise or amend the Constitution?". If a majority of ballots cast upon the question is in the affirmative, delegates to the convention shall be chosen no later than the next regular election, unless Congress provides for the selection of delegates earlier at a special election.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Art. 1, Section 3; Art. 14: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/constitution.htm
Direct Democracy Database, IDEA, https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=145&database_theme=309
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy Database, IDEA, https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=145&database_theme=309
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy Database, IDEA, https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=145&database_theme=309
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Constitutional amendments can be proposed by a citizens' initiative.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Art. 14, Section 1: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/constitution.htm
Direct Democracy Database, IDEA, https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=145&database_theme=309
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy Database, IDEA, https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=145&database_theme=309
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional b . Specific laws/legislation
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD100
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD106
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a referendum?
Answer(s):
a . Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD109
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
Answer(s):
a . Information booklets b . Leaflets and pamphlets c . Radio broadcasts d . TV broadcasts e . Press advertisements f . Website
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional b . Specific laws/legislation c . Regulations
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD112
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
Answer(s):
b . Expenditure limits
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD113
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD115
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
Answer:
b . Other (specify)
Comments: In the months leading up to the election
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD116
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD118
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
c . All campaign organisations
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD122
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD125
Question: Is the government permitted to campaign either in favour of or against any specific outcome to a referendum, initiatives or recall vote?
Answer(s):
b . No
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Government (specify department) c . President d . Legislature
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Adoption of international treaties c . Transfer of authority to international bodies d . National sovereignty, national self-determination e . Conflict between constitutional organs f . Devolution g . Civil service h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments i . Other public policy issues
Comments: Only constitutional change can be the subject of referendums
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
c . President d . Legislative majority
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
d . Legislature
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD034
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
a . The title of the proposal b . The numbers of the articles or paragraphs of the legal instruments to which changes are proposed d . The full text of the proposal
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments: b) Governmental electoral commission
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
d . Other (specify below)
Comments: d) 3/4 of all votes
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
a . Always
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
b . Under certain circumstances (specify below)
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD051
Question: What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
Answer(s):
a . Proposed title b . General explanation of purpose c . Full proposed text
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
c . Both the proponents and the responsible agency following negotiation
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
a . Spelling/grammatical checks b . Drafting actual text for legal measure c . Translating the title and/or text into other languages
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
a . An automatic check is part of the initiative process
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD057
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
b . After its publication, during the collection of signatures
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
c . President d . Legislature
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
b . Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
c . Other (specify)
Comments: The president decides
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
c . Conviction
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
c . Other (specify)
Comments: The president decides
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD083
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD095
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Johnathan John, Director, FSM Elections
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
b . Sometimes binding
Comments: Territory may be added to the Federated States of Micronesia upon approval of Congress, and by vote of the inhabitants of the area, if any, and by vote of the people of the Federated States of Micronesia. If the territory is to become part of an existing state, approval of the state legislature is required.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Art. 1, Section 3; Art. 14, Section 2: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/constitution.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
a . Constitutional changes only
Comments: An amendment to this Constitution may be proposed by a constitutional convention, popular initiative, or Congress in a manner provided by law.
Source: Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia Art. 1, Section 3; Art. 14: http://www.fsmlaw.org/fsm/constitution/constitution.htm
Verified: 2025/03/28
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2025/03/28
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There is no code of conduct, however there are rules and regulations to be followed.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 4.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2024/11/25
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
b . At any polling station in the same voting district
Comments:
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2025/03/28
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
c . Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)
Comments: Any citizen eligible voter registered in the voters schedule living abroad has the right to cast his vote in referendum or election in the normal procedure or through electronic means according to the directives of the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs. They can vote in the Embassies, Consulates, or Diplomatic Mission.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 25: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2025/03/28
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
a . Embassies b . Consulates
Comments: Any citizen registered in the voters schedule living abroad has the right to cast his vote in referendum or election in the normal procedure or through electronic means according to the directives of the Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs. They can elect in the Embassies, Consulates, or Diplomatic Mission.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 25: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2025/03/28
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
a . No
Comments: The process of voting in the Elections will continue from 8 am to 6 pm, if in any district there are voters who have not cast their ballot then the process will continue in that district only. If all voters registered in the schedule have completed the process ahead of time then the chairman can declare the end of voting after the final voter casts his ballot.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 21.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2024/11/25
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 21.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2024/11/25
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 21.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/08/12
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There is no maximum number in any polling station; when all voters registered in the scheduled has cast their ballots then the chairman can declare the end of voting after the final voter casts his ballot.
Source: Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 24.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified: 2005/02/17
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: The vote is carried out by ticking a prepared ballot in a special voting room.
Source: Decree No. 14 of 2002 on Exercising Political Rights, art. 23: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/mideast/BH/bahrain-law-by-decree-on-exercising-political/view
Verified: 2025/03/28
VO012
How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
The smallest polling station: 3
The largest polling station: 3
Average per polling station:
Source
Decree number 14 for 2002, Exercising Political Rights, part 3, article 17.
Updated on March 10, 2005
Verified
2024/11/25
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