Protecting elections: Global ‘Train the Trainers’ workshop

The objective of the workshop was to build a pool of regional and multilingual experts able to effectively deliver Protecting Elections activities in their respective regions. The event used an activity-based, inquiry-driven approach, blending participatory adult learning techniques.

The event was attended by 25 participants (17 female and 8 male) from Election Management Bodies (Armenia, Mexico, and Ukraine), Civil Society Organizations (ANFREL, Preludem), and academia (Christ University, Royal Military College of Canada, Electoral Integrity Project). This five-day workshop was built upon the Protecting Elections Project.  The workshop was the capstone of the Protecting Elections Project, made possible by the generous support of Global Affairs Canada. Opening remarks were made by international IDEA facilitators, as well as Megan Lau of the Canadian Embassy to Sweden.

During five days of presentations and activities, participants were given an opportunity to engage with the material and gain a deeper understanding and knowledge of the Framework’s resource materials, which included a guide, self-assessment survey, training curriculum, and a resource portal. These materials have been tested and refined through a series of workshops, trainings, and technical support events conducted in Mauritius, Ukraine, Finland, Panama, and Benin, taking place from 2023 to 2025, and through collaboration with Le Réseau des compétences électorales francophones (RECEF).  

The event also provided an opportunity for participants to further improve their facilitation skills through a one-day skills camp that included activities on training techniques (or learning methods), gender and diversity in training, and the importance of continuous monitoring and evaluation, among others.

During the event, emphasis was put on the Protecting Elections Training Curriculum, which includes 19 customizable activities on the Integrated Framework for Protecting Elections with an emphasis on electoral risk management, resilience building, and crisis management. It is a comprehensive and highly interactive capacity-development tool, designed for a two- to three-day Protecting Elections Training Workshop to be run at the country, regional, or global level.

The evaluation scores provided by the participants were very positive, with an overall event score of 100% excellent, representing a true testament to the quality of the workshop and engagement of everyone involved.

This workshop was made possible thanks to the support of Global Affairs Canada. For more information about the Protecting Election Farmwork and resource materials, visit International IDEA website.