GECOM, UNDP host workshop to strengthen electoral integrity
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Guyana, through a strategic and valuable contribution from the Government of the United Kingdom (UK), successfully hosted a one-day workshop on ‘Strengthening Communication Strategies for Electoral Integrity’ at the United Nations House in Georgetown.
According to a GECOM-UNDP joint press release, the initiative reflects the shared commitment of GECOM, UNDP and the UK in fostering transparent, inclusive, and credible electoral processes.
GECOM Public Relations and Civic and Voter Education Divisions, and UNDP Electoral Experts
The workshop, it noted, was designed to enhance GECOM’s strategic communication capacity in the lead-up to the 2025 elections.
Additionally, it demonstrates the importance of proactive, timely, and accurate public engagement, which are essential to building trust in democratic systems—particularly in an era of rapid information flows and increasing disinformation.
Interactive discussion on electoral communications at the workshop
The workshop served as a platform to align efforts toward a unified vision of informed civic participation and institutional resilience, the release stated.
It covered a range of critical topics, including civic and voter education strategies; promoting information integrity and countering disinformation; anticipating public information needs and managing the news cycle; crisis communication planning and response; media engagement and relationship building; and social media management and digital outreach.
Participants engaged in interactive sessions, scenario-based exercises, and peer learning activities designed to equip them with practical tools and frameworks for effective public engagement.
A key outcome of the workshop, it noted, was the development of a unified GECOM-branded identity for the 2025 elections, along with strategies to reach diverse voter groups, including youth, first-time voters, women, persons with disabilities, and marginalised communities.
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment from both GECOM and UNDP to continue building institutional capacity for strategic communications and to foster inclusive, informed, and peaceful electoral participation.
