UNDP Inclusive Lesotho Election Cycle Support Project, jointly funded by the European Union Delegation to Lesotho and UNDP, in cooperation with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) of Lesotho, will implement a 4-day BRIDGE customized modular workshop on Boundary Delimitation and Voter Registration. This workshop is designed specifically for IEC Lesotho headquarters staff, Senior District Election Officers, and representatives of the Ministry of Home Affairs (National Identity and Civil Registry – NICR).

The workshop aims to provide participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in both boundary delimitation and voter registration processes, enabling them to design and implement fair, accessible, and effective electoral systems within the Lesotho context.

WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES

Boundary Delimitation Objectives:

1. Identify the steps involved in Boundary Delimitation process – Participants will gain comprehensive understanding of the systematic approach to electoral boundary delimitation
2. Understand international/regional experiences (and challenges) related to delimiting constituencies – Explore best practices and lessons learned from comparable contexts
3. Analyze boundary drawing implications on electoral outcomes and correlate the guiding principles – Examine how boundary decisions impact representation and electoral fairness
4. Identify criteria for evaluating electoral boundary fairness and effectiveness – Establish measurable standards for assessing boundary delimitation quality
5. Develop practical skills through hands-on boundary delimitation exercises – Master technical skills through simulated delimitation activities

Voter Registration Objectives:

1. Examine Voter Registration principles – Understand foundational concepts and international standards for effective voter registration systems
2. Develop understanding of administrative requirements for implementation – Gain comprehensive knowledge of logistical and administrative prerequisites for voter registration in Lesotho
3. Identify optimal registration methodologies – Compare various approaches and systems to determine best practices suited to Lesotho’s context
4. Create adaptable operational frameworks for implementation – Collaboratively develop practical planning frameworks that can be customized to local conditions

This workshop is designed to contribute directly to the broader goals of the Inclusive Lesotho Election Cycle Support Project by:

1. Enhancing the IEC’s technical capacity in critical areas of boundary delimitation and voter registration
2. Improving coordination mechanisms between key electoral stakeholders
3. Establishing standardized approaches and best practices for electoral boundary management
4. Strengthening voter registration systems to ensure inclusivity, accuracy, and accessibility
5. Building institutional knowledge that supports long-term electoral cycle management