Major Findings Postponing Elections The decision to postpone a democratic election as a result of a national or international crisis is significant. It may be a necessary decision — given the severity of the crisis, such as COVID-19, and the country’s readiness and ability to respond effectively — but that calculation is complex and highly consequential. Elections underpin the legitimacy of governments and representatives at the national and subnational level. Periodic elections and terms of office ensure power is not concentrated and perpetuated in certain individuals or factions but is preserved or transferred based on the will of the governed. Elections postponed due to COVID-19 Figure 2: Shaded countries and states represent those in which an election has been postponed in response to COVID-19. Created with mapchart.net. International Principles Related to Election Postponements The international principles governing political and electoral rights are set out in international law, and it is well established that the rights to vote and stand for election — on a periodic basis — are fundamental rights.12 The same is true for other civil rights that are important for democratic elections, including freedom of expression, freedom of movement and freedom of assembly. Despite the ramifications for the periodicity of elections and the exercise of these fundamental civil and political rights, delayed or postponed elections do not necessarily contravene international principles. International law allows for the derogation of some rights — including the right to vote and stand for election — in emergency situations, albeit with very strict guardrails to prevent abuse.13 -6- International Foundation for Electoral Systems