Vanuatu Electoral Office Staff BRIDGE Operational Planning Workshop

The Vanuatu Electoral Office has successfully concluded a two-day BRIDGE (Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections) Workshop held from 9–10 December 2025 at the scenic Moso Island Resort. The training was delivered with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Vanuatu, in close collaboration with the Vanuatu Electoral Office.

A total of 13 participants from the Electoral Office took part in the intensive program, completing three key BRIDGE modules: Election Day & Results Management, Election Operations Planning, and Voter Registration. These internationally recognized modules aim to strengthen operational knowledge, build technical capacity, and promote best practice in electoral administration.

The workshop was facilitated by a team of three accredited BRIDGE Facilitators: Gary Tavoa, Melissa Lois Tumulango, and Lead Facilitator Desmond Tsianai, who jointly delivered a highly interactive and engaging learning experience. Through group discussions, case studies, practical exercises, and reflective sessions, participants were able to explore both theoretical and practical aspects of effective election management.

Participants expressed strong appreciation for the relevance and significance of the modules to their day-to-day roles within the Vanuatu Electoral Office. Many shared reflections highlighting that the Election Operations Planning module, in particular, greatly enriched their knowledge and strengthened their skills in planning and executing an electoral event. They emphasised that the exercises and scenarios presented during the sessions deepened their understanding of systematic planning and operational coordination.

Overall, the majority of participants indicated that their expectations were fully met. They reported leaving the workshop highly satisfied, equipped with practical tools, improved confidence, and a clearer grasp of key electoral processes.

UNDP Vanuatu reaffirmed its commitment to supporting national institutions in building strong, transparent, and inclusive democratic systems. The collaboration with the Vanuatu Electoral Office is part of broader efforts to ensure that electoral staff are well-prepared to deliver credible and efficient elections in the years ahead.

The successful completion of the BRIDGE Workshop marks a significant step in strengthening the capacity and professionalism of election administration in Vanuatu, contributing to more effective and informed electoral operations in the future.