Belarus and Philippines strengthen electoral partnership

Belarus and the Philippines strengthen cooperation in the World Association of Electoral Authorities (A-WEB). This was discussed at a meeting of Deputy Chairman of the CEC of Belarus Alexei Bashan with Chairman of the Election Commission of the Philippines (COMELEC), Chairman of A-WEB George Erwin Mohika Garcia in Manila (Philippines), the CEC of Belarus reported.

The parties discussed in detail issues of bilateral cooperation in the electoral sphere, paying special attention to joint work and strengthening interaction within the framework of the World Association of Electoral Authorities, where the Philippines assumed the presidency.

The Belarusian side presented its Philippine counterpart with the experience of organizing electoral processes and legal education of citizens. George Erwin M. Garcia showed deep interest in Belarus’ achievements in developing the electoral system and improving the legal literacy of the population.

As a practical example, the head of COMELEC got acquainted with publications that reveal the electoral and state foundations of the country. The book Belarusian Election: Facts was presented to the Chairman of the Election Commission of the Philippines. Figures. "Truth" and "Symbols of Sovereign Belarus" (in English), published specifically for first-time voters in the presidential elections of Belarus in 2025.

The meeting confirmed the mutual desire of the electoral bodies to open professional dialogue and strengthen electoral sovereignty.

Alexey Bashan and Chief of Staff of the CEC Sergey Shmarlovsky took part in an international conference on the protection of elections from the influence of AI technologies, which was held today in Manila as part of joint meetings of two international electoral associations - the World Association of Electoral Authorities and the Association of Asian Electoral Authorities. The main topics of the panel discussions are countering disinformation campaigns, labeling AI-generated content and combating the use of deepfakes to discredit candidates and election organizers.

The Belarusian side shared with colleagues their own experience in ensuring electoral sovereignty, and also presented the book Belarusian election: Facts. Figures. Truth.

The conference participants agreed that the development of AI technologies poses unprecedented challenges for election organizers and voters.

The international experience and information gained during the discussions will be used in Belarus to further ensure electoral sovereignty and improve the electoral process.