Election Coverage
Contents |
Definition/Description
A key area for countries in transition is the understanding and reporting of electoral processes. Media practitioners have often experienced decades of electoral charades, reported by a tightly controlled press, which presented only the façade of democracy. The need to assess the entire electoral landscape, including electoral law, election commissions, voters’ lists and opposition and nonpartisan participation — as well as the more obvious questions of freedom of expression and association — is often little appreciated.
Civic and voter education campaigns can train media practitioners in analyzing and reporting these fundamental questions. The need for such information is clear in countries undergoing democratic transitions or those with little experience in electoral processes, where governments are willing to at least tolerate human rights activities and open media. Providing guidelines on these issues, and explaining the role of national and international monitoring or observer organizations, is important.
Indicators
Methods/Methodologies/Tools to use
Practitioners’ tips
Examples
Resources
- Related web portals
- Training resources
- Discussion forums and specialised platforms
- Organisations and institutions specialised in this area
- For further study:
Author(s)
Thomas R. Lansner
Contributions
