A Peacebuilding Challenge in Many Shapes and Forms
Debra introduces eight different types of election violence. Understanding these distinctions is important, since each type may require different prevention measures.
Election violence goes beyond clashes between political parties and their supporters and can assume many different forms.
Systematically tracking the different types of election violence throughout an election allows for more effective future prevention.
Characteristics of Election Violence as a Peacebuilding Challenge
Now that election violence has been defined and types have been identified, it’s important to be able to recognize key characteristics. Jonas examines some of the key characteristics of election violence, related to its timing, location, and impact on peace and democracy.
Certain trends in election violence can be identified allowing officials, civil society, and assistance providers to better prioritize and time their preventive efforts.
It's imperative to start planning prevention efforts early, ideally between 12 and 18 months prior to election day.