The Election Commission of India (ECI) is all set to host the 4th General Assembly of the Association of World Election Bodies (A-WEB) in Bengaluru, scheduled for 3rd September 2019. This event signifies an important milestone as India will take over the chairmanship of A-WEB for the 2019-21 term. The ECI has had a long-standing association with A-WEB, holding positions on the executive board and recently being elevated to Vice-Chair.
The Journey of ECI with A-WEB
The ECI has been an integral part of A-WEB since its inception. Serving as an executive board member for two consecutive terms from 2013-15 and 2015-17, the ECI has been instrumental in shaping the direction of this global body. The ECI took a step forward during the A-WEB General Assembly in 2017 when it was unanimously elected as Vice-Chair for the 2017-19 term, paving the way for its upcoming chairmanship.
About Association of World Election Bodies (A-WEB)
Founded on October 14, 2013, in South Korea, A-WEB is the largest association of Election Management Bodies (EMBs) globally. The organization’s vision is to realize sustainable democracy worldwide. With its permanent secretariat located in Seoul, South Korea, A-WEB encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing among Member EMBs through various programs.
Key Initiatives of A-WEB
To achieve its objective of promoting sustainable democracy, A-WEB undertakes several initiatives across its member countries. One such key initiative is the Election Visitor and Observation Programmes, which help study various election management practices worldwide. Through these observational studies, members are given opportunities to share and gain knowledge of effective electoral practices.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2013 | A-WEB Established |
| 2013-2015 | ECI as Executive Board Member |
| 2015-2017 | ECI continues as Executive Board Member |
| 2017-2019 | ECI Elected as Vice Chair |
| 2019-2021 | ECI to be Chair of A-WEB |
Upcoming Event: 4th General Assembly of A-WEB
The upcoming 4th General Assembly of the Association of World Election Bodies (A-WEB) is a significant event in the electoral calendar. It will be hosted by the ECI on 3rd September 2019 in Bengaluru, marking India’s increased role and responsibility in this global body. As India prepares to take the helm as A-WEB’s Chair, the ECI is poised for leading and fostering sustainable democracy worldwide.
This assembly not only marks India taking over the duty of the chair but also represents the global trust and recognition that India and the ECI have earned over the years. The event is sure to forge new relationships, catalyze knowledge sharing, and further the vision of sustainable democracy across the globe.
[source: PIB]