“Maintaining the relevance of BRIDGE by addressing emerging topics and challenges while delivering modules and programs in the current global context”.

21 Aug 2025 virtual event

The AEC and International IDEA worked collaboratively to plan and implement the first BRIDGE virtual event for 2025, which was a dynamic and inclusive experience, incorporating a range of logistical, communication, engagement and evaluative components, including:

1. A pre-event survey to identify topics of interest
2. Registration process
3. Live attendance at the virtual event
4. Circulation of the event recording for those unable to attend
5. Engagement of presenters from diverse global regions
6. Engagement of technical support and interpretation services provided by UNDP
7. Facilitator community interaction via the BRIDGE Secretariat inbox
8. A post-event survey to gather feedback
9. Publication of a summary article on the BRIDGE website.

The feedback reflected a strong appreciation for the opportunity to reconnect, learn and collaborate. Attendees found the discussion on customisation of BRIDGE modules particularly valuable. The walk through of the BRIDGE Portal and the sharing of lived experiences from diverse electoral contexts were also cited as key highlights. One attendee noted, “the opportunity to share and learn from the lived experiences of fellow facilitators is one of the most valuable aspects” while another emphasised the value of the “information [provided] about changes and innovations that have occurred in the modules [and] how to navigate the BRIDGE website”.

While most respondents stated that all aspects of the event were useful, a few noted areas for improvement.

The first 2025 BRIDGE virtual event successfully achieved its core objectives of fostering cohesion and knowledge-sharing within the Facilitator Community. Participation was strong and gender-balanced and feedback indicates that the event was widely regarded as well-organised, relevant, and enriching.

The coordination of the Secretariat and the collaborative preparation between the involved Partner organisations contributed to a seamless delivery and professional experience, but improvements can be made regarding the timely identification and resolution of technical challenges.

Evaluations show that participants want future events to be more interactive, more community-driven and, where possible, organised on a regional basis.

At the same time, the Partners themselves also noted the limitations of a Partner-led model. While ensuring quality and consistency a Partner-led approach risks constraining the community’s ability to grow and adapt. The main recommendation is therefore that the BRIDGE Partners begin exploring ways to gradually shift from delivering events themselves to enabling experienced facilitators, especially at regional level, to take the lead in planning and organising events in the medium to long term.