New Voluntary Guidelines Aim to Improve Electoral Integrity in the Digital Age

The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) is preparing to release the Voluntary Electoral Integrity Guidelines for Technology Companies in a live-streamed event from Seoul on March 19th at 4:30 pm KST. These guidelines have been developed in response to the growing scrutiny and concern surrounding the influence of technology in elections, particularly in light of the significant increase in global electoral activities.

The past year has seen an unprecedented number of electoral events worldwide, with over 70 countries scheduled to hold national-level elections. This surge in electoral activities has brought to the fore the challenges posed by the use of technology in the electoral process. IFES, in collaboration with election authorities, civil society groups, and technology companies, has developed these voluntary guidelines to establish a common framework for promoting election integrity within the context of a rapidly evolving information landscape.

The Voluntary Electoral Integrity Guidelines for Technology Companies represent a concerted effort to address the challenges posed by the widespread dissemination of information, including misinformation and disinformation, through digital platforms. The guidelines aim to create a collaborative environment in which technology companies and election authorities can work together to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.

By setting out a set of expectations and best practices, the guidelines seek to enhance transparency, accountability, and responsibility among technology companies. Moreover, they serve as a means to promote the adoption of ethical standards and practices that align with the principles of free and fair elections. The guidelines are designed to be flexible, ensuring that they can be adapted to the unique contexts and challenges faced by different countries and electoral systems.

The launch of the Voluntary Electoral Integrity Guidelines for Technology Companies is a momentous occasion, marking a significant step towards addressing the complex intersection of technology and elections. The event will feature insights and perspectives from leading experts in the fields of election administration, technology, and civil society. Through this initiative, IFES aims to stimulate dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders, fostering a collective commitment to upholding the integrity of electoral processes in the digital age.

As the use of technology continues to shape the conduct of elections around the world, the need for concerted efforts to reinforce electoral integrity has become increasingly apparent. The Voluntary Electoral Integrity Guidelines for Technology Companies represent a proactive and collaborative approach to addressing the challenges posed by the digital age, underscoring the critical role of technology companies in promoting the credibility and fairness of electoral processes globally. Join us in witnessing this pivotal moment in the advancement of electoral integrity by tuning in to the live stream of the launch event from Seoul.