Electoral Processes

The Impact of Natural Hazards on Elections

Indonesian election officials transport ballot boxes from polling stations on a boat as they wade through flood water in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia, 18 April 2019. Credit: EPA-EFE/IQBAL KUSUMADIREZZA

Election management bodies have always had to cope with the risk of natural hazards, but the threat posed by such phenomena has become more apparent in recent years.

According to the Institute for Economics and Peace, the number of natural disasters, including floods and cyclones, has tripled in the last four decades. This dramatic development is consistent with the predictions of climate scientists, and it is thus highly likely that elections will more frequently be affected by natural hazards in future years.

For analysis, publications, and audio content, visit the Impact of Natural Hazards on Elections multimedia report.