Challenges in Civic Organization Elections in Asia

Just like any group, civic organizations in Asia face their own share of election challenges. Low voter turnout, a lack of trust and transparency, and limited resources are just a few challenges these organizations may encounter when electing the next organizational leader or deciding on key issues.

Each of those factors play into one another. If an organization doesn’t have the right resources to educate its voters on the candidates, issues or process then they likely won’t trust the system and in turn, won’t turn out to vote.

The key to a successful civic organization or association election process is to make sure it is fair, just, and easy for anyone to understand.

Understanding the Electoral Process

How traditional organizations choose leaders in Asia has changed over the years. Leaders once rose to power based on hierarchy and seniority, but more and more organizations are turning to democratic processes to elect their next leader and speak up on key issues.

The electoral process is quite simple, but can quickly become convoluted and complex if the organization doesn’t have the right procedures in place. Depending on the organization, those systems can look quite different–especially when it comes to things like voter eligibility. What works for key union elections in Asia may not work for a civic organization or professional association. 

Once the organization establishes what the election procedure looks like, the remaining principles are relatively the same everywhere. The next step starts with nominating candidates or deciding what issues are headed for the ballot. 

Members then cast their votes. Finally, once the votes are counted–the results are determined and announced.

How to Improve Voter Turnout

With one of the biggest challenges being voter turnout, how can organizations engage people ahead of time? There are quite a few different ways:

1. Send a simple text or email: A timely reminder about election deadlines and dates, key voting information, and personalized messages can likely increase voter turnout numbers.

2. Make the voting process easier: Do voters have to jump through hoops to make their voices heard? The more they have to do to cast their ballot, the less interested they may be. Instead of hosting in-person elections, consider an online one instead. This makes voting more accessible to all, with ways for voters to cast their votes from anywhere.

3. Educate voters: These days there may be disinformation and misinformation surrounding the electoral process. Being open and honest about an organization’s entire election process may motivate more people to participate. This transparency could encourage them to turn out and vote, knowing their votes matter and are counted fairly.

Overcoming Challenges with ElectionBuddy

The good news? Platforms like ElectionBuddy can help with every single one of these challenges! It’s safe, secure, and user-friendly–designed to give organizations the resources they need to have a successful election in their civic organizations.

ElectionBuddy is made to handle any type of election with fully customizable ballots that can be made in a matter of minutes. Through personalized notices–like texts and emails–organizations can reach anyone on their voter lists to make sure they are informed and ready to cast their ballots.

When they’re ready, members can cast their ballots on their phone or computers from anywhere without issue. Voters’ choices are kept confidential, but the final results are quickly tallied up and can be immediately shared with voters for full transparency. It’s as easy as that!