Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

Regulations determining the requirements political candidates or parties must meet to appear on election ballots.

Efforts and policies aimed at changing the rules and procedures that determine how candidates qualify to appear on election ballots. These reforms seek to increase fairness and reduce barriers to candidacy.

Legal or procedural barriers that candidates or parties must overcome to appear on election ballots, often affecting minor parties and independents.

The layout and format of a voting ballot, which can influence voter understanding and the accuracy of vote casting.

A secure container where voters can deposit completed mail-in or absentee ballots before election day to facilitate voting access and convenience.

Collecting and submitting completed absentee or mail-in ballots by third parties to increase voter turnout for a campaign or cause.

A method of changing the order of candidate names on ballots to reduce the advantage of being listed first.

An independent body responsible for overseeing the conduct, fairness, and logistics of elections to ensure integrity and public trust.

The adherence to democratic principles and fairness in the conduct of elections, including transparency, accuracy, and freedom from fraud or coercion.

Using computer algorithms to draw electoral district boundaries to maximize partisan advantage efficiently and subtly.

A voting method where voters publicly declare their choice instead of voting secretly.

The process of removing names from voter registration lists, which can sometimes lead to disenfranchisement if done improperly.