Annual Review 2025

Message from the Secretary-General

In 2025 the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) celebrated its 30th anniversary. We seized the occasion not just to look back but to push forward, alongside our Member States—led by Switzerland, our 2025 Council Chair—and other partners: building consensus, resolve and action to support democracy in an era of crisis and uncertainty. 

This Annual Review is about much more than 12 months of activities. It is about lasting and tangible improvements to people’s lives, made possible by a unique combination of research, programmes and convening power—all grounded in the credibility of a global intergovernmental organization. It is about how our work is making a difference. We are making a difference in Ukraine, for example, where we are helping the Ukrainian Central Election Commission prepare for post-war elections—so Ukrainians can once again choose their own future in freedom and safety. 

We are making a difference in Nigeria too, where reforms we facilitated are helping victims of violence obtain legal support and protection, and giving all citizens better access to the world’s financial system because their country now meets anti-corruption standards. 

We are making a difference globally, as our analysis, advice and advocacy generate international commitments and policy innovation on issues from electoral risk management to artificial intelligence and political finance transparency. 

This is what we do. This is what our Member States, partners and donors support when they work with us. As we look ahead to the next 30 years, we will remain resolute in our mission to support democracy globally. We will continue to make a difference.