What is IFES?

The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) supports citizens’ right to participate in free and fair elections. Our independent expertise strengthens electoral systems and builds local capacity to deliver sustainable solutions.

As the global leader in democracy promotion, we advance good governance and democratic rights by:

• Providing technical assistance to election officials
• Empowering the under-represented to participate in the political process
• Applying field-based research to improve the electoral cycle

IFES is a nongovernmental, nonpartisan organization and is registered as a 501(c)3 in the United States.

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How many countries does IFES work in?

Since 1987, IFES has worked in 135 countries — from developing democracies, to mature democracies.

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How is IFES funded?

IFES’ projects are funded by bilateral and multilateral development agencies, such as the United States Agency for International Development and the United Nations. We also receive funding from private corporations, individuals and foundations. See funding and contracts for more information.

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Are you affiliated with a political party?

No. IFES is an international, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization.

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How many people work for IFES?

IFES employs about 400 people. Approximately 100 work at headquarters in Washington, D.C., and 300 are located in our field offices.

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Can I work as an election monitor for IFES?

IFES rarely monitors elections because we are more often involved in helping countries administer the elections. Monitoring those same elections would constitute a conflict of interest. When we do monitor elections, we draw upon our database of technical consultants. Visit our Careers page to register with the consultant database.

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Where is IFES located?

IFES is headquartered in Washington, D.C., but has field offices in more than 30 countries. Our Washington address is 1850 K Street, NW, Fifth Floor, Washington DC 20006. See the directions to our offices.

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Does IFES award grants?

No. IFES is not a foundation that awards solicited or unsolicited grants. Our sub-grants are always part of our technical assistance projects and under the direction of the awarding donor.

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How can I get involved in IFES’ work?

More than 30 undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates, work as interns with IFES programs for academic credit or practical experience each year. For more information on internships and job openings, visit our Careers page. You can connect with IFES on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. To subscribe our monthly e-newsletter, IFES Express, please enter your email address in the form at the top of the page.

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Does IFES have fellowships available?

Yes. IFES offers two fellowships each summer for graduate students: the Manatt and the Hybl fellowships. Please visit the Applied Research Center for detailed information.

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If I have more questions, who can I contact?

You can contact us at info.communications@ifes.org or call 202-350-6700.

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