Free elections require that all citizens, organizations, and political parties enjoy the fundamental rights of expression, association, assembly, and movement. Each voter is able to cast his or her ballot free from intimidation, violence, administrative action, or fear of retribution.

Fair elections should ensure that there are equal conditions for all participants in the election process. Candidates and political parties that wish to run for office are able to do so and to compete on the basis of equal and impartial treatment under the law.

Based on commonly accepted standards for election monitoring, we have identified seven categories that organize key indicators for free and fair elections. Click on the icons for more details.