International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) is an intergovernmental organization founded in 1995 with headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden. Its primary mission is to support sustainable democracy worldwide by strengthening democratic institutions and processes.

International IDEA works across a broad spectrum of democratic development, focusing on areas such as electoral processes, constitution-building, political participation and representation, and democracy assessments. It integrates cross-cutting themes like gender equality, inclusion, conflict sensitivity, and the link between democracy and sustainable development.

The organization operates globally with regional and country offices in Africa, the Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, and West Asia. Its approach emphasizes impartiality, non-partisanship, collaboration, and a demand-driven response to the needs of democracies.

International IDEA’s activities include generating comparative knowledge, developing policy-relevant tools and data, providing technical assistance, and supporting dialogue and reform processes in member and partner countries.

Governed by a Council of Member States, International IDEA is led by a Secretary-General who oversees its global operations and strategic direction.