Protecting elections in times of crises
Elections are high-stakes and high-risk events. The high stakes are their role in ensuring the proper functioning of democratic institutions. The high risk is in the likelihood that electoral disputes can escalate into deep political crises, violent conflicts, and instability, harming governments' domestic and international legitimacy. Therefore, preparedness to protect elections in times of crisis is essential to safeguard democratic continuity, maintain public trust, and prevent the erosion of democratic institutions.