Political parties play a crucial role in representative democracy. In some circumstances they are exposed to strong influences that make them vulnerable. This is particularly the case in situations of protracted violence, where the state is unable to exert significant control over its territory, or where organized crime is prevalent.
A better understanding of these issues is pivotal for improving the quality of assistance to political parties and processes in such contexts, as well as articulating sound field programming that responds to such challenges.
International IDEA's Democracy, Conflict and Security initiative has been facilitating inter-regional dialogues that advance in the understanding and policy options available to mitigate and prevent the effects of organized crime over political processes. In addition, the team is also assisting IDEA's regional offices in launching in-country initiatives with local partners to empower actors that are in positions to leverage for substantial political reforms, as well as strengthen political parties and their functioning.
