In anticipation of the India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management (IICDEM) 2026, the Election Commission of India (ECI) convened a conference of Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) on Thursday at the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM), New Delhi.
The conference was chaired by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi. The session focused on briefing CEOs about the framework, objectives, and operational details of IICDEM 2026, scheduled to be held from January 21 to 23, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
CEC Kumar underscored India’s commitment to strengthening democracy globally, describing IICDEM 2026 as a pivotal platform for election management bodies across the world to exchange knowledge, best practices, and innovations. The Election Commissioners highlighted the crucial role of CEOs in leading thematic discussions and engaging with international delegates.
During the conference, CEOs reviewed 36 thematic groups covering the entire spectrum of election management, drawing upon the diverse experiences of election management bodies worldwide. IICDEM 2026 is set to be India’s largest global event on democracy and election administration, with participation expected from nearly 100 international delegates, representatives of global organisations, foreign missions, and leading academics.
The three-day event will feature several high-level sessions, including the Inaugural Session, EMB Leaders’ Plenary, Working Group Meetings, and the launch of ECINET, alongside thematic discussions on electoral challenges, international standards, and innovations.
Adding academic depth to the conference, premier institutions such as the IITs, IIMs, National Law Universities (NLUs), and the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) will participate by co-leading thematic groups with CEOs and international experts. With more than 40 bilateral meetings and 36 breakout sessions planned, IICDEM 2026 aims to reinforce India’s leadership in advancing democratic values and election management globally.