The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) has marked 30 years of dedication to strengthening democracy globally. Established in 1995, this intergovernmental organization focuses on electoral cooperation, institutional reform, democratic participation, and governance studies. Its core mission is to promote free, fair, and credible elections, along with fostering democratic values and institutional resilience across continents.
In recognition of India’s successful track record of conducting large-scale free and fair elections, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is set to assume the chairmanship of International IDEA on December 3, 2025, in Stockholm, Sweden. This appointment signifies a global endorsement of India’s electoral capabilities and governance standards. As the world's largest democracy, with over 90 crore electors, India is poised to share its extensive experience in polling management, inclusivity reforms, voter education, and technological innovations.
India's leadership at International IDEA will play a crucial role in enhancing the capacity of Election Management Bodies (EMBs) in various countries. By leveraging its expertise, India aims to assist other nations in strengthening their electoral processes and promoting democratic governance.
Headquartered in Sweden, International IDEA currently comprises 35 member countries, with the United States and Japan participating as observers. Since 2003, it has held observer status at the UN General Assembly, further solidifying its role in global democratic cooperation. India, as a founding member, has actively engaged in research, training, knowledge exchange, and development support programs facilitated by the organization.
International IDEA collectively represents a democratic electorate of approximately 2.22 billion voters (222.5 crore) among its member and observer nations. India stands out with around 991 million registered voters, the largest among all members. Other significant electorates include:
In addition to these countries, various European and African democracies contribute to the organization, including Germany, France, South Africa, Ghana, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, and Tunisia, alongside smaller democracies such as Luxembourg, Barbados, and Cabo Verde.
Q1. What is the main objective of International IDEA?
Answer: The primary objective of International IDEA is to promote free, fair, and credible elections, along with supporting democratic values and institutional resilience globally.
Q2. Who will chair International IDEA in 2026?
Answer: Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar will chair International IDEA in 2026, representing India in global democratic initiatives.
Q3. How many member countries does International IDEA have?
Answer: International IDEA has 35 member countries and includes the United States and Japan as observer nations.
Q4. What is India's significance in International IDEA?
Answer: India, as the world's largest democracy, plays a crucial role in sharing its electoral management expertise and promoting democratic practices globally through International IDEA.
Q5. What is the collective electorate represented by International IDEA?
Answer: International IDEA represents a collective democratic electorate of approximately 2.22 billion voters across its member and observer nations.
Question 1: When was International IDEA established?
A) 1990
B) 1995
C) 2000
D) 2005
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Who will assume chairmanship of International IDEA in 2026?
A) Gyanesh Kumar
B) Narendra Modi
C) Amit Shah
D) Rahul Gandhi
Correct Answer: A
Question 3: How many member countries does International IDEA currently have?
A) 30
B) 35
C) 40
D) 45
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which country has the largest number of registered voters in International IDEA?
A) United States
B) Brazil
C) India
D) Indonesia
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What does International IDEA focus on?
A) Economic development
B) Electoral cooperation and governance
C) Environmental issues
D) Cultural exchange
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What is the primary goal of International IDEA?
A) To establish trade agreements
B) To promote free and fair elections
C) To support military alliances
D) To encourage tourism
Correct Answer: B
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