Election Observations Research & Reforms

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Election Observation
Research & Reforms

Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) stands as Pakistan’s first domestic observation group, dedicated to election observation, research, and reform initiatives. Supported by Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability (TDEA), FAFEN employs long-term, nationwide, and statistically rigorous observation methodologies in adherence to international standards and best practices for observing elections throughout Pakistan. As the first civil society network of networks in Pakistan, FAFEN endeavors to enhance representativeness, inclusion, transparency, accountability within electoral processes. Through evidence-based recommendations, FAFEN has played a pivotal role in the electoral reforms process, making significant strides towards ensuring fairness and integrity in the electoral system.

Achievements

GE-2024 Election Day Observers

6,000

Local Government Election Day Observers

1,500

GE-2018 Election Day Observers

16,000

GE-2013 Election Day Observers

41,000

GE-2008 Election Day Observers

19,000

FAFEN Recommendations Included in The Elections Act, 2017

Election Observation

FAFEN’s comprehensive approach ensures observation across all phases of the electoral cycle. Through deployment of trained, accredited observers, FAFEN provides in-depth insights into the conduct of elections, facilitating informed analysis and meaningful electoral reforms. During the pre-election phase, FAFEN observes crucial pre-election processes, including the changes in the legal framework, political environment, voter preparedness, inclusion of marginalized groups, and instances of pre-election violence. On election day, observers observe the voting, counting and result consolidation process to ensure the inclusion, integrity and accessibility of elections. Post-elections, FAFEN observes disputes and complaints redressal mechanism.

Evidence-based Research

Employing the data and information gathered through observation, FAFEN conducts evidence-based research to analyze voting behaviors, turnout, and demographic participation trends. Legal and policy research includes review of the electoral framework, drawing on observations to inform recommendations for transparency and inclusivity. FAFEN also examines the influence of digital and social media on elections, addressing its potential and risks. This comprehensive research provides actionable insights that help FAFEN’s advocacy efforts for meaningful electoral reforms.

Developed statistically rigorous election observation methodology

Trained and deployed over 100,000 accredited citizen observers

Launched www.electionpakistan.com, a pioneering initiative housing data on every general election since the 1970s

Proposed evidence-based, data-driven reforms

Electoral Reforms

FAFEN’s role extends beyond research and analysis to actively advocating for meaningful electoral reforms that enhance the inclusivity, transparency, and credibility of the electoral process. Leveraging our extensive data-driven research, we provide evidence-based recommendations to policymakers, electoral authorities, and legislative bodies, shaping discourse and driving tangible reforms that strengthen Pakistan’s democratic institutions.

FAFEN is supported by
Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability (TDEA)

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FAFEN Secretariat: Plot No.3-A, Class III Shopping Centre, Muslim Market, Street 65, Sector F-10/3, Islamabad

Phone Number: +92-51-8466232, +92-51-8466120 | Fax: +92-51-8432141

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