Election Dispute Resolution modular workshop for the Judiciary and Election Administration

On December 17-20, in Ukraine took place a four-day BRIDGE workshop, “Electoral Dispute Resolution”.

The workshop gathered 24 participants (9 men and 15 women) from the CEC, the judiciary, IFES, NGOs/CSOs and partner universities, all of whom are integral to the electoral process. This workshop equipped participants with critical skills necessary for effective investigation and adjudication processes while also promoting sustainable inter-sectoral cooperation.

Key takeaways included the importance of timely and effective EDR mechanisms across all phases of the electoral cycle to safeguard fundamental rights, facilitate peaceful government transitions, and reduce election-related unrest. Participants explored the necessity for Election Dispute Resolution Bodies to possess the expertise, independence, and authority required to implement legal frameworks in line with international standards. The workshop also highlighted the critical role of robust legal and regulatory frameworks, the complementary function of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and the development of practical skills in case management, investigation, and adjudication. Representatives, particularly from the Judiciary, praised the use of the BRIDGE methodology, describing it as a unique, participatory, effective, and educative approach to addressing complex EDR topics.

The seminar featured role-playing games and simulations of the electoral dispute resolution process, which allowed participants to learn the best practices of alternative electoral dispute resolution mechanisms and mediation.

Participants noted that having a “mixed” audience enabled them to gain a better understanding of the needs of various stakeholders. This diversity helped them identify key approaches and mechanisms for effective cooperation aimed at ensuring genuine democratic elections in challenging conditions

Participants’ feedback on the training:

‘The presentation of the material was accompanied by simultaneous discussion and learning thanks to the facilitator – it is very effective. Interactive techniques can be used not only in the electoral field, but also in other areas. The biggest advantage is the diversity of the participants. The judges had the opportunity to hear the opinions of other stakeholders and explain their expectations,’ said a judge participating in the workshop.

‘The diversity of the participants is always useful. We often get professionally ‘deformed’ and stay in our own bubbles. It was very interesting to hear different views. We even wrote down what we need to work on to be more transparent,’ said the CEC representative.

The seminar was an excellent platform for sharing experiences and opinions, strengthening cooperation between different stakeholders and improving approaches to resolving electoral disputes.