Gyanesh Kumar to Chair International Democracy Forum

The global stage for democratic governance will see Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar taking the helm as President of International IDEA. This significant leadership role commences on December 3, 2025, in Stockholm, Sweden. This appointment is a clear indication of the international community’s recognition of the Election Commission of India’s consistent efforts in delivering impartial, transparent, and credible electoral outcomes. Kumar remarked that the world acknowledges India’s achievement in conducting elections that are both free and fair. He further elaborated that for the first time in its three-decade existence, International IDEA has invited India to chair its proceedings, a move he described as a source of immense pride for the nation and its election administrators. Established in 1995, International IDEA serves as a crucial inter-governmental body focused on strengthening democratic processes worldwide. It currently includes 35 member nations, with the United States and Japan participating as observers. Since 2003, it has held observer status at the UN General Assembly. India, as a founding member, actively contributes to IDEA’s governance, research, and capacity-building programs. As the planet’s largest democracy, India is poised to share its extensive electoral expertise and innovative practices with Election Management Bodies across the globe during its presidency in 2026.