Promoting honest elections in Armenia

Abstract

A simple definition of democracy is “government of the people, by the people, and for the people”. For any democracy free and fair elections are vital. Ideally, citizens have confidence that: (1) elections occur according to specified rules and usually at specific intervals; (2) candidates for office can freely and effectively present their positions and qualifications; (3) each voter’s preference can be expressed freely; (4) each vote counts equally in determining the outcome; and (5) only citizens entitled to vote will participate. As a newly emerged and developing democracy Armenia should aim to establish and maintain an electoral system that meets these criteria. So far it has not. This study will identify ways in which Armenia’s electoral practices depart from the ideal, explore the various correctives that have been or could be applied, and recommend ways to address current shortcomings in the Armenian electoral system.