Bhutan

Strengthened Institutional Capacity of the Election Commission of Bhutan

The Election Commission of Bhutan (ECB) was established on 16th January 2006, following the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner under the Royal Decree on 31 December 2005.  The main objective behind the establishment of the ECB is to create an environment that is conducive to free and fair elections so that all Bhutanese women and men, who are eligible and interested , can take part in the elections.  The ECB is mandated for superintendence, direction and control of the preparation of electoral rolls, conduct of parliamentary and local government elections as well as of holding a referendum under the Constitution, in a free and fair manner. 

UNDP's support to the ECB contributes towards the enhanced national capacity in conducting free and fair elections at national and local levels through supporting institutional and human capacity building and creation of greater awareness and understanding of the electoral process among voters particularly women, youth, illiterates and people in remote areas.

As Bhutan successfully conducted its first general elctions in 2008 it is vital that the ECB is suppported to ensure people's understanding of the electoral process goes beyond the elections to contribute to a effective democratic insitution and processes. The upcoming local government elections in 2010 for all 205 local governments will also be a first  the ECB.

The support will enhance the capacity development of the ECB  for the conduct of free and fair elections at local levels and promote awareness on rights and duties through civic education.

The project is jointly supported by the Government of Japan.

UNDAF Outcome	4: By 2012, institutional capacity and people’s participation strengthened to ensure good governance.
CT Outcome	3.2 Capacity of key institutions to support parliamentary democracy strengthened
CT Output	3 Enhanced capacity of key organisations in conducting free & fair elections at national & local levels.
Project Location	Thimphu
Project Duration	January 2012 - June 2013
Budget Outlay	US$ 47,250
MDG Goal	Goals 1,3,8
Link to Workplan	Click on the icon to download