May 29, 2021
Your weekly roundup of news and analysis of elections in the Americas, usually posted on Saturdays and occasionally updated throughout the week. For a full electoral calendar and interactive map, click here.
A market in Oaxaca, Mexico. Mexico holds high-stakes midterms on June 6, with over 21,000 offices – plus AMLO’s plans to transform the country – on the ballot. Photo credit: Wikimedia/Reforma.imufomot (public domain)
Upcoming Americas Elections
Peru Presidential Runoff: June 6, 2021
Peru held general elections for April 11, 2021. These elections are coming on the heels of snap legislative elections that took place on January 26, 2020, and in the context of political turmoil – including the impeachment of President Martín Vizcarra and the subsequent “week of three presidents” – and an economic crisis brought on by COVID-19.
The presidential runoff will pit self-described Marxist Pedro Castillo against right-wing populist Keiko Fujimori, daughter of former president Alberto Fujimori, who is currently in prison for various crimes (Keiko is also currently facing criminal charges). Castillo came out of nowhere to win the first round. However, none of the 18 candidates received more votes than the number of blank ballots cast – a sign of voters’ deep frustration. More
Gonzalo Torrico, Worldcrunch (May 31, 2021): China’s Future Gateway To Latin America Is A Mega-Port In Peru
Marco Aquino, Reuters (May 30, 2021): Peru election race tightens a week before polarized vote
Paul J. Angelo and Chloé Mauvais, Council on Foreign Relations (May 28, 2021): Will Peru’s Polarized Election Bring More Instability?
Andres Oppenheimer, Miami Herald (May 26, 2021): Party of Peru’s leading presidential candidate is Marxist — and wants to nationalize everything
BBC News (May 25, 2021): Peru’s Shining Path kills 16, including children, ahead of polls
Ana Maria Cervantes and Matthew Bristow, Bloomberg (May 25, 2021): Slaughter of Peru Villagers Stirs Dark Memories, Roils Election
Mexico Legislative, Gubernatorial, and Local Elections: June 6, 2021
Mexico holds high-stakes midterm legislative elections, as well as gubernatorial elections in 15 of Mexico’s 31 states, and local elections, on June 6, 2021. In total, more than 21,000 offices are at stake – the biggest elections in Mexico’s history.
These elections will be a key test for left-wing populist firebrand Andrés Manuel López Obrador (frequently called AMLO) ahead of the 2024 presidential election. AMLO, who has been governing in an increasingly authoritarian manner, wants to transform Mexico by jettisoning the market economy. If he is to succeed, his MORENA party will need to win a super-majority in the legislature.
Meanwhile, political violence is on the rise, with at least 88 politicians killed and hundreds of candidates targeted. More
David Agren, The Guardian (May 31, 2021): ‘Huge incentives to kill’: Mexico crime groups target election candidates
Natalie Gallón and Matt Rivers, CNN (May 30, 2021): At least 88 politicians have been killed in Mexico since September
The Economist (May 29, 2021): Mexico’s false messiah: Voters should curb Mexico’s power-hungry president
Reuters (May 26, 2021): Mexican president seen holding on to lower house in election – poll
Saint Lucia Parliamentary Elections: July 5, 2021 (tentative)
Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia, a democracy with competitive elections and regular transfers of power, is constitutionally required to hold parliamentary elections by October 12, 2021. Traditionally, elections are held on the fifth anniversary of the previous elections, which in this case would have been June 6, 2021. However, the elections are delayed a bit due to concerns about COVID-19. July 5 has been proposed as the date, but it could change. More
MENAFN – Caribbean News Global (May 28, 2021): St Lucia adjusts COVID-19 protocols in anticipation of general elections early July
Haiti Parliamentary Elections: September 19, 2021 and Presidential Election: Due in November 2021 (delays possible)
Haiti plans to hold long-overdue legislative elections on September 19, 2021, and also has a presidential election due later this year. However, the country is currently in a political crisis related to allegations of fraud followed Haiti’s presidential 2015 election. The international community, including the United States government, has called on Haiti’s officials to set a date for elections and end the crisis.
Haiti plans to hold a constitutional referendum on June 27, although the United States has raised concerns that it would just cause more political turmoil while helping President Jovenel Moise consolidate power. The opposition has called for protests against the referendum, which it deems unconstitutional, and a boycott. More
Editorial Board, Miami Herald (May 29, 2021): Stop pushing for elections in Haiti, President Biden. They will only make things worse
Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald (May 26, 2021): Can the OAS help break the political impasse in Haiti? A mission will soon visit
Nicaragua General Elections: November 7, 2021
Nicaragua holds general elections on November 7, 2021. President Daniel Ortega, who has been in power for 20 years, will seek another term, and under his rule, Nicaragua has become increasingly authoritarian, with rule of law and fundamental freedoms under assault.
Dánae Vílchez, Washington Post (May 31, 2021 – in Spanish): The hunt against opponents and journalists grows in Nicaragua. The international community must act.
Lisa Schlein, Voice of America (May 29, 2021): UN: Nicaraguan Election Law Undermines Election Fairness
Chase Harrison, AS/COA (May 26, 2021): Nicaragua’s Opposition Faces a Stacked Electoral Deck
David Agren, Crux Now (May 25, 2021): Nicaragua Catholic leaders decry increasing government repression
Chile Presidential and Legislative Elections: November 21, 2021
Chile holds presidential and legislative elections in November (with presidential primaries on July 4). These elections follow the May 2021 local elections, and importantly, elections to the Constitutional Assembly.
Incumbent president Sebastian Pinera, from the center-right Chile Vamos coalition, is not running for another term. He currently has low approval ratings, posing a challenge for his party’s candidate (who will be chosen in the July primary election). Moreover, the conservatives failed to secure even one third of the Constitutional Assembly.
These elections are taking place in the context of a year of protests and riots, including violent looting, arson, and vandalism. Furthermore, an intense debate over the new constitution continues. More
Andrés Velasco, Project Syndicate (May 31, 2021): Chile’s Constitutional Revolution
The Economist (May 29, 2021): An electoral surprise in Chile may produce a left-wing constitution
Benedict Mander, Financial Times (May 25, 2021): Chile’s ‘social explosion’ lights a fuse under its constitution
Venezuela Regional and Local Elections: November 21, 2021
Venezuela has scheduled regional and local elections for November 21, 2021. In December 2020, Venezuela held legislative elections despite members of the opposition and international community calling for a delay in order to ensure credible, fair elections. Ultimately, most of the opposition boycotted.
The Economist (May 31, 2021): Venezuela’s strongman wants to improve relations with the United States: Nicolás Maduro might even go easier on the opposition in exchange
Naky Soto, Caracas Chronicles (May 26, 2021): 40 Political Parties With A Common Goal: Free Elections
Aritz Parra, AP (May 25, 2021): Venezuela asks Spain to extradite leading opposition figure
Colombia Presidential and Legislative Elections: Spring 2022 (due)
Colombia is due to hold presidential and legislative elections in spring 2022. Conservative Ivan Duque, elected president in 2018, is constitutionally barred from running for re-election. One of the frontrunners to replace him is former left-wing guerilla Gustavo Petro, who placed second in 2018. The country has been rocked by riots in recent weeks. The proximate cause was a tax bill, but the protests have grown – and grown violent – and dozens have died.
AFP (May 29, 2021): Colombia’s Duque Says He’s Deploying Military to Protest-hit Cali
Dave Lawler, Axios (May 27, 2021): Colombia’s protests rumble on into their second month
Brazil Presidential and Legislative Elections: October 2, 2022
Brazil holds general elections in October 2022. Jair Bolsonaro, the right-wing populist firebrand president, is up for re-election. Former president Lula da Silva, himself a populist firebrand of the left-wing variety, will run against him. The country remains deeply polarized between right and left, although some are searching for a third candidate to challenge both Bolsonaro and Lula. More
Al Jazeera (May 29, 2021): Brazil protesters denounce Bolsonaro over COVID crisis
Alex Hochuli, The Brazilian Report (May 28, 2021): Anti-Bolsonaro struggle reshapes political arrangements for 2022 Brazil
GZERO (May 26, 2021 – video): Can ‘Lula,’ the hero of Brazil’s left, unseat Bolsonaro?
Canada Parliamentary Elections: By October 16, 2023 (snap elections possible)
Canada is not due to hold federal elections until 2023, but snap elections could happen if the opposition manages to oust PM Justin Trudeau’s Liberal minority government in a vote of no confidence. Meanwhile, a number of provinces are holding elections this year.
Janet E Silver, iPolitiics (May 25, 2021): All parties support motion against holding a pandemic election
Past Americas Elections
Ecuador Presidential Runoff: April 11, 2021
Ecuador held a presidential runoff on April 11, 2021. Conservative Guillermo Lasso, who edged out indigenous activist Yaku Pérez for a spot in the runoff, surprised many by decisively defeating left-wing economist Andrés Arauz, a protege of former president Rafael Correa (himself barred from running after being convicted of corruption). More
Global Americans (April 28, 2021): Guillermo Lasso inaugurated as President of Ecuador
El Salvador Legislative and Local Elections: February 28, 2021
El Salvador held legislative and local elections on February 28, 2021. Allies of populist president Nayib Bukele won in a landslide, allowing him to consolidate his hold on the country with a legislative majority. Critics note growing authoritarianism. More
BNAmericas (May 26, 2021): Will cutting aid stop Bukele?
Regional Analysis
Alvaro Marañon, Lawfare (May 28, 2021): How Have Information Operations Affected the Integrity of Democratic Elections in Latin America?
Americas Elections Coming Up in 2021 and 2022
Mexico Midterm Legislative Elections and Some Gubernatorial Elections: June 6, 2021
Peru Presidential Runoff: June 6, 2021
Aruba Parliamentary Elections: June 25, 2021
Haiti Constitutional Referendum: June 27, 2021
Saint Lucia Parliamentary Elections: July 5, 2021 (tentative)
Haiti Presidential and Legislative Elections: September 19, 2021
Paraguay Municipal Elections: October 10, 2021
Argentina Midterm Legislative Elections: October 24, 2021 (could be delayed to November 14, 2021)
Nicaragua Presidential and Legislative Elections: November 7, 2021
Chile Presidential and Legislative Elections: November 21, 2021
Venezuela Regional and Local Elections: November 21, 2021
Honduras Presidential and Legislative Elections: November 28, 2021
Guyana Local Elections: Due in 2021
Costa Rica Presidential and Legislative Elections: February 6, 2022
Colombia Legislative Elections: March 13, 2022
Colombia Presidential Election: May 29, 2022
Bahamas Parliamentary Elections: May 2022 (due – snap elections possible)
Brazil Presidential and Legislative Elections: October 2, 2022
21votes does not necessarily agree with all of the opinions expressed in the linked articles; rather, our goal is to curate a wide range of voices. Furthermore, none of the individuals or organizations referenced have reviewed 21votes’ content. That is to say, their inclusion should not be taken to imply that they endorse us in any way. More on our approach here.
Americas This Week: May 29, 2021
Last Updated: June 7, 2021 by 21votes Leave a Comment
May 29, 2021
Your weekly roundup of news and analysis of elections in the Americas, usually posted on Saturdays and occasionally updated throughout the week. For a full electoral calendar and interactive map, click here.
Upcoming Americas Elections
Peru Presidential Runoff: June 6, 2021
Peru held general elections for April 11, 2021. These elections are coming on the heels of snap legislative elections that took place on January 26, 2020, and in the context of political turmoil – including the impeachment of President Martín Vizcarra and the subsequent “week of three presidents” – and an economic crisis brought on by COVID-19.
The presidential runoff will pit self-described Marxist Pedro Castillo against right-wing populist Keiko Fujimori, daughter of former president Alberto Fujimori, who is currently in prison for various crimes (Keiko is also currently facing criminal charges). Castillo came out of nowhere to win the first round. However, none of the 18 candidates received more votes than the number of blank ballots cast – a sign of voters’ deep frustration. More
Gonzalo Torrico, Worldcrunch (May 31, 2021): China’s Future Gateway To Latin America Is A Mega-Port In Peru
Marco Aquino, Reuters (May 30, 2021): Peru election race tightens a week before polarized vote
Paul J. Angelo and Chloé Mauvais, Council on Foreign Relations (May 28, 2021): Will Peru’s Polarized Election Bring More Instability?
Andres Oppenheimer, Miami Herald (May 26, 2021): Party of Peru’s leading presidential candidate is Marxist — and wants to nationalize everything
BBC News (May 25, 2021): Peru’s Shining Path kills 16, including children, ahead of polls
Ana Maria Cervantes and Matthew Bristow, Bloomberg (May 25, 2021): Slaughter of Peru Villagers Stirs Dark Memories, Roils Election
Mexico Legislative, Gubernatorial, and Local Elections: June 6, 2021
Mexico holds high-stakes midterm legislative elections, as well as gubernatorial elections in 15 of Mexico’s 31 states, and local elections, on June 6, 2021. In total, more than 21,000 offices are at stake – the biggest elections in Mexico’s history.
These elections will be a key test for left-wing populist firebrand Andrés Manuel López Obrador (frequently called AMLO) ahead of the 2024 presidential election. AMLO, who has been governing in an increasingly authoritarian manner, wants to transform Mexico by jettisoning the market economy. If he is to succeed, his MORENA party will need to win a super-majority in the legislature.
Meanwhile, political violence is on the rise, with at least 88 politicians killed and hundreds of candidates targeted. More
David Agren, The Guardian (May 31, 2021): ‘Huge incentives to kill’: Mexico crime groups target election candidates
Natalie Gallón and Matt Rivers, CNN (May 30, 2021): At least 88 politicians have been killed in Mexico since September
The Economist (May 29, 2021): Mexico’s false messiah: Voters should curb Mexico’s power-hungry president
Reuters (May 26, 2021): Mexican president seen holding on to lower house in election – poll
Saint Lucia Parliamentary Elections: July 5, 2021 (tentative)
Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia, a democracy with competitive elections and regular transfers of power, is constitutionally required to hold parliamentary elections by October 12, 2021. Traditionally, elections are held on the fifth anniversary of the previous elections, which in this case would have been June 6, 2021. However, the elections are delayed a bit due to concerns about COVID-19. July 5 has been proposed as the date, but it could change. More
MENAFN – Caribbean News Global (May 28, 2021): St Lucia adjusts COVID-19 protocols in anticipation of general elections early July
Haiti Parliamentary Elections: September 19, 2021 and Presidential Election: Due in November 2021 (delays possible)
Haiti plans to hold long-overdue legislative elections on September 19, 2021, and also has a presidential election due later this year. However, the country is currently in a political crisis related to allegations of fraud followed Haiti’s presidential 2015 election. The international community, including the United States government, has called on Haiti’s officials to set a date for elections and end the crisis.
Haiti plans to hold a constitutional referendum on June 27, although the United States has raised concerns that it would just cause more political turmoil while helping President Jovenel Moise consolidate power. The opposition has called for protests against the referendum, which it deems unconstitutional, and a boycott. More
Editorial Board, Miami Herald (May 29, 2021): Stop pushing for elections in Haiti, President Biden. They will only make things worse
Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald (May 26, 2021): Can the OAS help break the political impasse in Haiti? A mission will soon visit
Nicaragua General Elections: November 7, 2021
Nicaragua holds general elections on November 7, 2021. President Daniel Ortega, who has been in power for 20 years, will seek another term, and under his rule, Nicaragua has become increasingly authoritarian, with rule of law and fundamental freedoms under assault.
Dánae Vílchez, Washington Post (May 31, 2021 – in Spanish): The hunt against opponents and journalists grows in Nicaragua. The international community must act.
Lisa Schlein, Voice of America (May 29, 2021): UN: Nicaraguan Election Law Undermines Election Fairness
Chase Harrison, AS/COA (May 26, 2021): Nicaragua’s Opposition Faces a Stacked Electoral Deck
David Agren, Crux Now (May 25, 2021): Nicaragua Catholic leaders decry increasing government repression
Chile Presidential and Legislative Elections: November 21, 2021
Chile holds presidential and legislative elections in November (with presidential primaries on July 4). These elections follow the May 2021 local elections, and importantly, elections to the Constitutional Assembly.
Incumbent president Sebastian Pinera, from the center-right Chile Vamos coalition, is not running for another term. He currently has low approval ratings, posing a challenge for his party’s candidate (who will be chosen in the July primary election). Moreover, the conservatives failed to secure even one third of the Constitutional Assembly.
These elections are taking place in the context of a year of protests and riots, including violent looting, arson, and vandalism. Furthermore, an intense debate over the new constitution continues. More
Andrés Velasco, Project Syndicate (May 31, 2021): Chile’s Constitutional Revolution
The Economist (May 29, 2021): An electoral surprise in Chile may produce a left-wing constitution
Benedict Mander, Financial Times (May 25, 2021): Chile’s ‘social explosion’ lights a fuse under its constitution
Venezuela Regional and Local Elections: November 21, 2021
Venezuela has scheduled regional and local elections for November 21, 2021. In December 2020, Venezuela held legislative elections despite members of the opposition and international community calling for a delay in order to ensure credible, fair elections. Ultimately, most of the opposition boycotted.
The Economist (May 31, 2021): Venezuela’s strongman wants to improve relations with the United States: Nicolás Maduro might even go easier on the opposition in exchange
Naky Soto, Caracas Chronicles (May 26, 2021): 40 Political Parties With A Common Goal: Free Elections
Aritz Parra, AP (May 25, 2021): Venezuela asks Spain to extradite leading opposition figure
Colombia Presidential and Legislative Elections: Spring 2022 (due)
Colombia is due to hold presidential and legislative elections in spring 2022. Conservative Ivan Duque, elected president in 2018, is constitutionally barred from running for re-election. One of the frontrunners to replace him is former left-wing guerilla Gustavo Petro, who placed second in 2018. The country has been rocked by riots in recent weeks. The proximate cause was a tax bill, but the protests have grown – and grown violent – and dozens have died.
AFP (May 29, 2021): Colombia’s Duque Says He’s Deploying Military to Protest-hit Cali
Dave Lawler, Axios (May 27, 2021): Colombia’s protests rumble on into their second month
Brazil Presidential and Legislative Elections: October 2, 2022
Brazil holds general elections in October 2022. Jair Bolsonaro, the right-wing populist firebrand president, is up for re-election. Former president Lula da Silva, himself a populist firebrand of the left-wing variety, will run against him. The country remains deeply polarized between right and left, although some are searching for a third candidate to challenge both Bolsonaro and Lula. More
Al Jazeera (May 29, 2021): Brazil protesters denounce Bolsonaro over COVID crisis
Alex Hochuli, The Brazilian Report (May 28, 2021): Anti-Bolsonaro struggle reshapes political arrangements for 2022 Brazil
GZERO (May 26, 2021 – video): Can ‘Lula,’ the hero of Brazil’s left, unseat Bolsonaro?
Canada Parliamentary Elections: By October 16, 2023 (snap elections possible)
Canada is not due to hold federal elections until 2023, but snap elections could happen if the opposition manages to oust PM Justin Trudeau’s Liberal minority government in a vote of no confidence. Meanwhile, a number of provinces are holding elections this year.
Janet E Silver, iPolitiics (May 25, 2021): All parties support motion against holding a pandemic election
Past Americas Elections
Ecuador Presidential Runoff: April 11, 2021
Ecuador held a presidential runoff on April 11, 2021. Conservative Guillermo Lasso, who edged out indigenous activist Yaku Pérez for a spot in the runoff, surprised many by decisively defeating left-wing economist Andrés Arauz, a protege of former president Rafael Correa (himself barred from running after being convicted of corruption). More
Global Americans (April 28, 2021): Guillermo Lasso inaugurated as President of Ecuador
El Salvador Legislative and Local Elections: February 28, 2021
El Salvador held legislative and local elections on February 28, 2021. Allies of populist president Nayib Bukele won in a landslide, allowing him to consolidate his hold on the country with a legislative majority. Critics note growing authoritarianism. More
BNAmericas (May 26, 2021): Will cutting aid stop Bukele?
Regional Analysis
Alvaro Marañon, Lawfare (May 28, 2021): How Have Information Operations Affected the Integrity of Democratic Elections in Latin America?
Americas Elections Coming Up in 2021 and 2022
Mexico Midterm Legislative Elections and Some Gubernatorial Elections: June 6, 2021
Peru Presidential Runoff: June 6, 2021
Aruba Parliamentary Elections: June 25, 2021
Haiti Constitutional Referendum: June 27, 2021
Saint Lucia Parliamentary Elections: July 5, 2021 (tentative)
Haiti Presidential and Legislative Elections: September 19, 2021
Paraguay Municipal Elections: October 10, 2021
Argentina Midterm Legislative Elections: October 24, 2021 (could be delayed to November 14, 2021)
Nicaragua Presidential and Legislative Elections: November 7, 2021
Chile Presidential and Legislative Elections: November 21, 2021
Venezuela Regional and Local Elections: November 21, 2021
Honduras Presidential and Legislative Elections: November 28, 2021
Guyana Local Elections: Due in 2021
Costa Rica Presidential and Legislative Elections: February 6, 2022
Colombia Legislative Elections: March 13, 2022
Colombia Presidential Election: May 29, 2022
Bahamas Parliamentary Elections: May 2022 (due – snap elections possible)
Brazil Presidential and Legislative Elections: October 2, 2022
21votes does not necessarily agree with all of the opinions expressed in the linked articles; rather, our goal is to curate a wide range of voices. Furthermore, none of the individuals or organizations referenced have reviewed 21votes’ content. That is to say, their inclusion should not be taken to imply that they endorse us in any way. More on our approach here.
Asia This Week: May 28, 2021
Last Updated: June 7, 2021 by 21votes Leave a Comment
May 28, 2021
Your weekly roundup of news and analysis of elections in Asia and the Pacific, usually posted on Fridays and occasionally updated throughout the week. For a full electoral calendar and interactive map, click here.
Upcoming Asia/Pacific Elections
Mongolia Presidential Election: June 9, 2021
Mongolia, a free though imperfect democracy, has scheduled its presidential election for June 9, 2021, following parliamentary elections in June 2020 and local elections in October 2020. The country is stable, and economic growth continues, largely driven by mining. However, concerns have recently been raised about freedom and democracy. More
Japan General Elections: On or Before October 22, 2021
Japan is due to hold general elections by October 22, 2021, but they could happen earlier. In addition, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, who replaced Shinzo Abe last year, faces a leadership contest in his conservative Liberal Democratic Party ahead of the general elections.
Sheila A. Smith, Council on Foreign Relations (May 27, 2021): Japan’s Difficult Summer
The Japan Times (May 24, 2021): LDP heavyweights unite to keep key Suga backer in check
Nepal Snap Parliamentary Elections: November 12 and 19, 2021
Nepal will hold snap elections in November 2021, following a protracted political crisis. For background: in December 2020, Nepal’s prime minister decided to dissolve parliament and call for new elections. However, on February 23, the Supreme Court overturned the decision, cancelling the snap elections. The government subsequently lost a confidence vote, sparking snap polls. More
Arun Budhathoki, The Diplomat (May 26, 2021): Nepal’s President Announces Fresh Elections Amid Continuing Political Upheaval
Roshan Sedhai and Zaheena Rasheed, Al Jazeera (May 26, 2021): Nepal plunges into crisis – again. Here’s what you need to know
Hong Kong Legislative Elections: December 19, 2021
Hong Kong plans to hold elections to the Legislative Council on December 19, 2021, after more than a year’s delay. These elections are taking place in the context of Beijing’s determination to gut Hong Kong’s democracy. More
Reuters (May 29, 2021): Organizers lose appeal to hold Tiananmen vigil in Hong Kong
Primrose Riordan, Nicolle Liu, and Robert Wright, Financial Times (May 29, 2021): The Hong Kong dilemma: ‘Either you shut up or you leave’
Reuters (May 27, 2021): Hong Kong passes sweeping pro-China election rules, reduces public’s voting power
Philippines Presidential Election: May 9, 2022
In 2016, populist firebrand Rodrigo Duterte won the presidency, claiming to be an outsider. He has governed with an iron fist. Although he is banned from seeking a second term, critics fear that he will seek to consolidate illiberalism in the form of a handpicked successor. Meanwhile, a broad coalition of opposition figures have formed 1Sambayan (One Nation) in the hopes of defeating Duterte’s allies with a united front.
Michael Beltran, Channel News Asia (May 29, 2021): Commentary: Is Duterte as tough a guy as he wants us to believe?
The Economist (May 29, 2021): The Philippines is repairing its relationship with America
Abigail Ng, CBNC (May 28, 2021): The Philippines has dramatically boosted South China Sea patrols, data shows
Ralph Jennings, Voice of America (May 28, 2021): Relations Between China, Philippines Seen Smoothing After Upbeat Talks
Reuters (May 27, 2021): Philippines’ Duterte to let God decide his political future
Mara Cepada, Rappler (May 25, 2021): 1Sambayan to release nominees for 2022 polls on Independence Day
Bangsamoro Regional Parliament: May 22, 2022
Michael Hart, World Politics Review (May 28, 2021): The Southern Philippines’ Post-Conflict Transition Is on Track, but Behind Schedule
Cambodia Local Elections: June 5, 2022 and Parliamentary Elections: July 2023 (due)
Cambodia is due to hold local elections in 2022 and general elections in 2023. Although Cambodia has held elections in the past that had some element of competition, the 2018 election – neither free nor fair – signified the closing of Cambodia’s political space. They have been called “the death of democracy.”
The main pro-democracy opposition, Cambodian National Rescue Party (CNRP), was dissolved and banned from fielding candidates, and its leader, Sam Rainsy, was sent into exile, so its supporters boycotted the polls, resulting in the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) taking 58 out of 62 seats in parliament, and allowing Prime Minister Hun Sen to consolidate even more power while extending his three decades in power.
Sam Rainsy, The Diplomat (May 27, 2021): Is Cambodia’s Exclusive Dependence on China Inevitable?
Australia Parliamentary Elections: May 2022 (due – snap elections possible)
Australia’s federal parliamentary elections are due by 2022, but snap elections could happen. Meanwhile, several states hold elections in 2021.
Tensions with China are rising as Australia’s federal government has cancelled several Belt and Road deals. More
ABC News Australia (May 24, 2021 – video): Australian Labor Party ‘soul-searching’ after by-election loss
Malaysia Possible Snap Parliamentary Elections and Sarawak State Elections: To be called shortly after the COVID-19 state of emergency ends
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has indicated that he will call early general elections once the COVID-19 pandemic is over. Meanwhile, several of Malaysia’s states are due to hold elections in the next year. Specifically, Sarawak is due to hold state elections this summer, or very shortly after the federal government lifts the COVID-19 state of emergency.
The country’s politics have been turbulent since the historic defeat of UMNO – which had ruled since 1957 – in the 2018 elections. UMNO is back in power but hanging on by a thread. More
Jerry Choong, Malay Mail (May 28, 2021): Khairy says Sarawak Covid-19 vaccination efforts to pre-empt infection risks from impending state election
Amy Chew, South China Morning Post (May 27, 2021): Umno, stalled juggernaut of Malaysian politics, faces leadership dilemma
Past Asia/Pacific Elections
Samoa (Election re-run that had been set for May 21 was cancelled)
Samoa held general elections on April 9, 2021, and the post-election situation has been rather eventful. A new opposition party, Fa’atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST, “Faith in the one true God”), posed a new challenge to the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), which has been in power since 1982. Ultimately, both FAST and HRPP got equal numbers of seats, with an independent MP breaking the tie and agreeing to support FAST. However, the plot continues to thicken as HRPP was given an additional female MP since the party did not meet its quota for women.
As a result of the deadlock, the prime minister has called new elections for May 21, but a court decided to block the new elections, reinstate the results, and overturn the decision to give HRPP an additional MP. As a result, FAST was declared the winner of the elections.
These elections are taking place in the context of controversy over proposed changes to the county’s constitutional framework and judiciary, involving questions of Samoan identity, as well as potential geopolitical shifts away from China. More
Julia Hollingsworth, CNN (May 29, 2021): The incredible rise of Samoa’s first female Prime Minister-elect, and the man still standing in her way
Natasha Frost, New York Times (May 24, 2021): She Was Supposed to Become Prime Minister but Was Locked Out of Parliament
Burma General Elections: November 8, 2020
Burma, also called Myanmar, held general elections on November 8, 2020. Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD) won in a landslide. However, on February 1, the military staged a coup, claiming election fraud (despite a lack of evidence). Protests against the coup continue. The military claims it will hold new elections will take place within two years. More
The Irrawaddy (May 27, 2021): Myanmar Military-Backed Party Official Assassinated
Radio Free Asia (May 27, 2021): Pro-Democracy Brother of Myanmar Junta’s Deputy Home Affairs Minister Dies in Military Custody
Hannah Beech, New York Times (May 25, 2021): Where Poets Are Being Killed and Jailed After a Military Coup
BBC News (May 24, 2021): Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi appears in court for first time since military coup
Asia/Pacific Elections Coming Up in 2021 and 2022
Mongolia Presidential Election: June 9, 2021
Macau Legislative Elections: September 12, 2021
Japan Parliamentary Elections: By October 2021 (snap elections possible)
Timor-Leste Municipal Elections: October 2021 (due)
Nepal Snap Parliamentary Elections: November 12 and 19, 2021
Tonga General Elections: By November 30, 2021
Hong Kong Legislative Council Elections: December 19, 2021
Sri Lanka Early Provincial Elections: Late 2021 (proposed)
India, State Elections in Goa, Manipur, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand: February/March 2022 (due)
South Korea Presidential Election: March 9, 2022
TImor-Leste Presidential Election: March 2022 (due)
Philippines Presidential and Legislative Elections: May 9, 2022
Australia Parliamentary Elections: May 2022 (due – snap elections possible)
Papua New Guinea Parliamentary Elections: June 2022 (due)
Cambodia Local Elections: June 5, 2022
Nauru Parliamentary Elections: August 2022 (due)
India, State Elections in Himachal Pradesh: October 2022 (due)
Fiji Parliamentary Elections: November 2022 (due)
India, State Elections in Gujarat: December 2022 (due)
21votes does not necessarily agree with all of the opinions expressed in the linked articles; rather, our goal is to curate a wide range of voices. Furthermore, none of the individuals or organizations referenced have reviewed 21votes’ content. That is to say, their inclusion should not be taken to imply that they endorse us in any way. More on our approach here.
Eurasia This Week: May 27, 2021
Last Updated: June 26, 2021 by 21votes Leave a Comment
May 27, 2021
Your weekly roundup of news and analysis of elections in Eurasia, usually posted on Thursdays and occasionally updated throughout the week. For a full electoral calendar and interactive map, click here.
Upcoming Eurasia Elections
Armenia Snap Parliamentary Elections: June 20, 2021
Armenia is holding snap parliamentary elections on June 20 in an effort to defuse a political crisis following a defeat in the recent Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Ani Mejlumyan, Eurasianet (May 27, 2021): Party lists for Armenian elections offer some surprises
Siranush Ghazanchyan, Public Radio of Armenia (May 26, 2021): 23 parties, 4 blocs bid for participation in snap parliamentary elections
Sara Khojoyan, Bloomberg (May 21, 2021): Armenia Premier Touts Azeri Border-Mapping Pact Amid Tensions
Moldova Snap Parliamentary Elections: July 11, 2021
Moldova is holding snap parliamentary elections on July 11, which pro-Europe center-right president Maia Sandu had been trying to call for months. Sandu trounced pro-Kremlin leftist Igor Dodon, who had been the incumbent, in the November 2020 presidential election However, no party currently has a clear majority in parliament (and Sandu’s allies are outnumbered by pro-Russian parties). The resulting political instability was reaching crisis levels. More
Madalin Necsutu, Balkan Insight (May 25, 2021): Moldova Encourages Diaspora to Vote in Parliamentary Polls
Russia Parliamentary Elections: By September 19, 2021
Russia is due to hold parliamentary elections by September 19, 2021. Russian elections are neither free nor fair. Nonetheless, the opposition has been making some gains in recent regional elections, helped by opposition leader Alexei Navalny’s “Smart Vote,” a campaign of tactical voting, in which they developed a list of candidates the best chance of beating Vladimir Putin’s United Russia. Consequently, the Kremlin has launched a brutal crackdown on the opposition, including imprisoning Navalny. More
Moscow Times (May 27, 2021): ‘Undesirable’ Open Russia Opposition Group Disbands Ahead of Elections
Meduza (May 26, 2021): Russian lawmakers adopt legislation banning people linked to ‘extremist organizations’ from running in elections
Reuters (May 26, 2021): Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny sues prison for censoring his newspapers
RFE/RL (May 25, 2021): Russian Lawmakers Take Step Toward Ban Of Navalny Supporters From All Elected Posts
Ann M. Simmons, Wall Street Journal (May 23, 2021): Russia’s Navalny Fights to Stay in Public Eye in Putin Standoff
Uzbekistan Presidential Election: October 24, 2021
Uzbekistan is holding a presidential election on October 24, 2021. Elections in Uzbekistan are neither free nor fair, and political opposition is not able to operate freely in the country. More
Navbahor Imamova, Voice of America (May 26, 2021): Uzbekistan Reform Pace Questioned as Presidential Election Approaches
Catherine Putz, The Diplomat (May 20, 2021): Uzbek Authorities Deny Registration to New Political Party With Presidential Ambitions
Past Eurasia Elections
Turkmenistan Parliamentary Elections: March 28, 2021
Turkmenistan held parliamentary elections on March 28, 2021. Turkmenistan is a highly repressive state that has never held free or fair elections, and lacks a genuine political opposition. More
RFE/RL (May 27, 2021): Turkmenistan Urged To Stop Threatening, Harassing Families Of Exiled Journalists
Kazakhstan Legislative Elections: January 10, 2021
Kazakhstan held legislative elections for January 10, 2021. The country’s elections take place in the context of an authoritarian system in which critics of the government face harassment and arrest. As such, no genuine opposition has representation in the legislature. More
EU Reporter (May 25, 2021): Kazakhstan passes new election participation law
Belarus Presidential Election: August 9, 2020
Belarus held a presidential election on August 9, 2020. In a vote widely deemed not free and not fair, incumbent Alexander Lukashenko declared victory. However, the opposition declared that Svetlana Tikhanovskaya had in fact won. Hundreds of thousands of Belarusians have taken to the streets in protest to demand free and fair elections, even in the face of assault and arrest by security forces. Protests continue. More
RFE/RL (May 26, 2021): Belarus Opposition Says It’s Preparing New Stage Of Protests Against Lukashenka
Simon Foy, The Telegraph (May 26, 2021): Stock exchange helped Belarus raise $1.25bn weeks before ‘rigged’ election
Reuters (May 25, 2021): Macron wants Belarus opposition to join G7 summit, but host UK says no such plan
Silvia Amaro, CNBC (May 25, 2021): The EU sanctions Belarus after ‘state terrorism’ — but experts aren’t convinced they’ll work
Eurasia Elections in 2021 and 2022
Armenia Snap Parliamentary Elections: June 20, 2021
Moldova Snap Parliamentary Elections: July 11, 2021
Russia Parliamentary Elections: By September 19, 2021
Georgia Local Elections: October 2021 (due)
Kyrgyzstan Parliamentary Elections Take 2: Fall 2021 (expected)
Uzbekistan Presidential Election: October 24, 2021
21votes does not necessarily agree with all of the opinions expressed in the linked articles; rather, our goal is to curate a wide range of voices. Furthermore, none of the individuals or organizations referenced have reviewed 21votes’ content. That is to say, their inclusion should not be taken to imply that they endorse us in any way. More on our approach here.
Europe This Week: May 26, 2021
Last Updated: June 4, 2021 by 21votes Leave a Comment
May 26, 2021
Your weekly roundup of news and analysis of elections in Europe, usually posted on Wednesdays and occasionally updated throughout the week. For a full electoral calendar and interactive map, click here.
Upcoming Europe Elections
Cyprus Parliamentary Elections: May 30, 2021
Cyprus is due to hold parliamentary elections on May 23, 2021. The center-right DISY – currently in the majority – will face off against the center-left AKEL, the main opposition party (with a number of smaller parties also competing). Cyprus is a presidential system (the only full presidential system in the EU), so these elections will function as more of a test for the parties ahead of the 2023 presidential election. The current president is President Nicos Anastasiades (from DISY). This is all happening in the context of the ongoing Eastern Mediterranean crisis. More
in-cyprus (May 26, 2021): Vote battle intensifies as Election Day looms in Cyprus
Croatia Local Runoffs May 30, 2021
Croatia held local elections for on May 16, and will hold runoffs in some places on May 30, 2021. These elections got a bit of a shakeup when Milan Bandic, the mayor of Zagreb, died in February after a combined 20 years in office (according to some reports, he was the world’s longest-serving mayor). Although Bandic had a devoted following, he was also controversial, and embroiled in a number of scandals. A former communist, he joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) when Croatia began holding multiparty elections in 1990, but later broke off to start his own party.
Zeljko Trkanjec, Euractiv (May 26, 2021): Croatia’s governing party HDZ has backing of voters, survey reveals
Latvia Municipal Elections: June 5, 2021
Latvia has scheduled municipal elections for June 5, 2021. After that, parliamentary elections are due in October 2022. More
Linus Folke Jensen, LSM (May 25, 2021): Young political candidates step forward for Latvia’s local elections
DW (May 24, 2021): Belarus and Latvia expel diplomats in ice hockey flag furor
Germany Saxony-Anhalt State Elections: June 5, 2021, and Bundestag Elections: September 26, 2021 (plus other state elections throughout the year)
Germany is due to hold several sets of elections next year, culminating in the September 26, 2021 federal parliamentary elections that will determine who succeeds Angela Merkel as chancellor. Additionally, five states hold elections. The year 2021 is thus a “Superwahljahr” (Super election year) in Germany.
Following an intense fight, CDU and CSU have nominated CDU leader Armin Laschet to be their candidate for chancellor. He defeated the Bavarian Markus Söder, who is more popular with voters. Meanwhile, over the past year, the Greens have taken SPD’s place as the main center-left party. They have portrayed themselves as responsible and mainstream, and have governed as such when in state governments. Consequently, Annalena Baerbock could become the first Green head of government in the history of the world. However, despite his unpopularity, Armin Laschet remains the favorite to succeed Merkel as chancellor. Nonetheless, German voters have a real choice and Baerbock, who comes from the party’s “realo” (moderate) wing as opposed to the “fundi” (radical) wing – has an actual shot at the top job. More
Marcel Fürstenau, DW (May 26, 2021): German politicians keep coalition options open ahead of election
AFP (May 25, 2021): Germany’s far-right AfD chooses hardline team ahead of national elections
Holly Ellyatt, CNBC (May 21, 2021): German industry could see winners and losers as Berlin plots a new political path, ex-Siemens boss says
France Regional Elections: June 13, 2021 and Presidential Election: April 2022 (due)
France holds regional elections on June 13, 2021, with a second round on June 20. These come ahead of next year’s presidential and legislative elections, where President Emmanuel Macron potentially faces a formidable challenge from the far-right. More
Elisa Braun, Pauline de Saint Remy, and Clea Caulcutt, Politico (May 26, 2021): French minister’s relationship with staffer casts shadow over election run
Finland Local Elections: June 13, 2021 (postponed from April)
Finland is holding municipal elections on June 13, 2021, delayed from April due to COVID-19. Following the 2019 parliamentary elections, a left-leaning coalition came into government nationally. More
YLE (May 26, 2021): Finland starts casting early votes, sometimes drive-in style
TheMayor.eu (May 20, 2021): Finland launches campaign to prevent disinformation ahead of elections
Bulgaria Snap Parliamentary Elections: July 11, 2021
Bulgaria is holding fresh parliamentary elections on July 11 after no party formed a government following the April 4 elections. In those polls, PM Boyko Borissov’s center-right GERB won the most seats, but lost ground and failed to win a majority. New parties running against the establishment did surprisingly well – in fact, a party called There Is Such a People, led by TV star Stanislav Trifonov, came in second and ruled out forming a coalition with GERB. Trifonov’s main platform was anti-corruption – indeed, corruption was the biggest issue in the election. More
Teodora Trifonova, Axios (May 25, 2021): Watergate-style scandal rocks Bulgaria ahead of election
RFE/RL (May 21, 2021): Bulgaria Says It Remains Opposed To EU Accession Talks For North Macedonia
Svetoslav Todorov, Balkan Insight (May 21, 2021): Bulgaria’s Caretaker Interior Minister Backs Opposition’s Eavesdropping Claims
Sofia Globe (May 20, 2021): Ultra-nationalists, populists form ‘Bulgarian Patriots’ alliance for July elections
Jamie Dettmer, Voice of America (May 20, 2021): Bulgaria’s Former Leader Battles Corruption Claims as Caretaker Government Starts Clean-Up
Czech Republic Parliamentary Elections: October 8-9, 2021
The Czech Republic has scheduled parliamentary elections for October 8-9, 2021. The current prime minister, controversial billionaire Andrej Babiš, came to power following the 2017 parliamentary elections. His populist ANO party won a plurality, but not majority, of seats, and he has had a turbulent tenure in office. More
Aneta Zachová, Euractiv (May 24, 2021): Czech President bars unfriendly media from receiving information
Slovenia Parliamentary Elections: By June 5, 2022 – snap elections possible
Slovenia is due to hold elections in June 2022, but snap elections are possible. The current government is a conservative minority coalition headed by populist Janez Janša. It came to power in January 2020 after the center-left minority government of Marjan Šarec collapsed.
Valentina Dimitrievska, bne Intellinews (May 27, 2021): Slovenia’s PM Jansa survives impeachment motion
Valerie Hopkins, Financial Times (May 23, 2021): Slovenia’s Jansa follows Hungary down authoritarian path: Prime minister turns on judges and media ahead of country assuming EU presidency
Hungary Parliamentary Elections: By Spring 2022 (or earlier)
Hungary is due to hold parliamentary elections by Spring 2022, although snap elections are possible. Prime Minster Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz party has become increasingly authoritarian, to the concern of many both in Hungary and in the international community.
Hungary Today (May 25, 2021): Press Roundup: Opposition Discusses Chances of Electoral Victory
George Parker, Ben Hall, and Jim Brunsden, Financial Times (May 25, 2021): Johnson to welcome Orban to Downing Street
Past Europe Elections
Spain, Catalonia Regional Elections: February 14, 2021
Catalonia held regional elections on February 14, 2021. Pro-independence parties won a majority of the seats and have recently formed a government.
In addition, Madrid held early regional elections on May 4, following the collapse of the government coalition consisting of the conservative Popular Party and the liberal Citizens Party. These elections took place in a highly polarized environment, as conservative incumbent Isabel Díaz Ayuso from the Popular Party defeated leftist firebrand Pablo Inglesias.
Daniel Dombey, Financial Times (May 26, 2021): Spain’s top court warns against pardoning jailed Catalan leaders: Supreme court opinion comes as Sánchez government signals possible move
Euronews/AP (May 21, 2021): Catalonia’s new president Pere Aragonés will ask Madrid for a referendum on independence
AFP (May 21, 2021): New Catalan leader vows to keep up independence fight
Albania Parliamentary Elections: April 25, 2021
Albania held parliamentary elections on April 25, 2021 in a tense political climate with several violent incidents. Since communism collapsed in 1990, Albania has held competitive elections and several transitions of power between political parties. The elections were close, and the incumbent Socialist Party won a third term in office, defeating the main opposition center-right Democratic Party. More
Altin Gjeta, Balkan Insight (May 21, 2021): Albania Remains Hostage to Its Communist Past
Keida Kostreci, Voice of America (May 21, 2021): US Sanction of Former Albanian PM Sends Message but Raises Questions
Europe Elections in 2021 and 2022
Croatia Local Elections: May 16, 2021
Cyprus Parliamentary Elections: May 30, 2021
Latvia Local Elections: June 5, 2021
Germany, Saxony-Anhalt State Elections: June 6, 2021
Finland Municipal Elections: June 13, 2021
France Regional Elections: June 13, 2021
Bulgaria Fresh Parliamentary Elections: July 11, 2021
Norway Parliamentary Elections: September 13, 2021
Iceland Parliamentary Elections: September 25, 2021
Germany Bundestag Elections, plus state elections in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and probably Thuringia: September 26, 2021
Austria, Upper Austria State and Municipal Elections: September 26, 2021
Czech Republic Parliamentary Elections: October 8-9, 2021
Italy Municipal Elections, plus regional elections in Calabria: October 10-11, 2021
Estonia Local Elections: October 17, 2021
North Macedonia Local Elections: October 2021 (due)
Portugal Local Elections: October 2021 (due)
Bulgaria Presidential Election: October/November 2021 (due)
Denmark Regional and Municipal Elections: November 16, 2021
Kosovo Local Elections: Due in 2021
Serbia Presidential and Parliamentary Elections: March/April 2022
France Presidential Election: April 2022 (due)
Austria Presidential Election: April 2022 (due)
Hungary Parliamentary Elections: April 2022 (due)
Slovenia Parliamentary Elections: By June 5, 2022
Malta Parliamentary Elections: June 2022 (due – snap elections possible)
Sweden Parliamentary Elections: September 11, 2022
Bosnia and Herzegovina Presidential and Legislative Elections: October 2022 (due)
Latvia Parliamentary Elections: October 2022 (due)
Slovenia Presidential Election: October/November 2022 (due)
21votes does not necessarily agree with all of the opinions expressed in the linked articles; rather, our goal is to curate a wide range of voices. Furthermore, none of the individuals or organizations referenced have reviewed 21votes’ content. That is to say, their inclusion should not be taken to imply that they endorse us in any way. More on our approach here.
Middle East This Week: May 25, 2021
Last Updated: June 3, 2021 by 21votes Leave a Comment
May 25, 2021
Your weekly roundup of news and analysis of elections in the greater Middle East and North Africa, usually posted on Tuesdays and occasionally updated throughout the week. For a full electoral calendar and interactive map, click here.
Upcoming Middle East Elections
Syria Presidential Election: May 26, 2021
Syria has scheduled its presidential election for May 26, 2021. The election comes in the context of Syria’s ongoing civil war and humanitarian crisis. Elections under the regime of Bashar al-Assad are widely considered to be a sham. More
Jennifer Holleis, DW (May 25, 2021): Syria’s sham election guarantees 1 thing — Bashar Assad will win
Dominic Evans and Hams Rabah, Reuters (May 25, 2021): As Assad tightens grip on Syria, many refugees lose hope
Hamada Elrasam, Voice of America (May 24, 2021): Syria Holds Presidential Elections that Many See as Symbolic
Algeria Snap Legislative Elections: June 12, 2021, followed by local elections later this year
Algeria will hold snap elections on June 12, 2021, following more than two years of protests by the Hirak movement. However, the government’s election plan has not actually satisfied the Hirak, who continue to take to the streets and have decided to boycott the elections. The absence of the Hirak, who are mostly secular, from the elections has paved the way for Islamist parties to become the main opposition.
Al Jazeera (May 22, 2021): Hundreds arrested as Algeria cracks down on protest movement
Africanews (May 21, 2021): Algeria legislative elections: Campaigns begin
Lamine Chikhi, Reuters (May 19, 2021): Algerian protesters face crunch point as police prepare crackdown
Iran Presidential and Local Elections: June 18, 2021
Iran has scheduled its next presidential election for June 18, 2021, with concurrent local elections. While Iran is far from a free country, and the elections are largely rigged, voters do have a degree of choice. More
AP (May 25, 2021): Iran, World Powers Resume Talks on US Return to Nuclear Deal
Reuters (May 25, 2021): Iran approves hardliner for presidential polls, bars several hopefuls
Patrick Wintour, The Guardian (May 25, 2021): Iran’s leadership accused of fixing presidential election: Guardian Council’s bar on reformist candidates has left narrow field of hardliners for June poll
AP (May 25, 2021): Iran state TV: 7 approved for June 18 presidential election
AFP (May 23, 2021): Iran’s polls set to split divided conservatives in two
Golnaz Esfandiari, RFE/RL (May 22, 2021): Disgruntled Iranians Say ‘No Way,’ Call For Boycott Of June Presidential Election
Al-Monitor (May 19, 2021): Raisi, Larijani likely top candidates for Iran’s presidential election
Iraq Early Parliamentary Elections: October 10, 2021 (tentative) and Provincial Elections (due)
Iraq’s government had proposed holding snap parliamentary elections on June 6, 2021, one year early, following the demands of protesters. However, the tentative date has been pushed to October. Iraq is also due to hold provincial (sometimes called governorate) elections. Preparations are taking place in the context of widespread protest and political instability. More
Samya Kullab, AP (May 25, 2021): 1 killed as protesters scuffle with Iraqi security forces
AFP (May 24, 2021): Killings in Iraq spark calls for election boycott
Layal Shakir, Rudaw (May 22, 2021): Iraqi election candidate assassinated: party leader
Qatar Shura Council Elections: October 2021 (announced – date not set)
Qatar has announced that it will hold its first-ever parliamentary elections in October 2021. More
Al Jazeera (May 20, 2021): Qatar cabinet approves draft law on Shura Council elections
Libya Parliamentary and Presidential Elections: December 24, 2021 (tentative)
Libya’s national elections are overdue and have been postponed indefinitely due to the political crisis and civil war. However, in November 2020, Libyan stakeholders participating in UN-sponsored talks proposed December 24, 2021 for presidential and parliamentary elections. More
Dorian Jones, Voice of America (May 25, 2021): Turkey Under Fire Over Military Presence in Libya
Dave Lawler, Axios (May 24, 2021): Libya’s fragile moment of unity
Sami Zaptia, Libya Herald (May 22, 2021): Libya is 70 percent ready to hold 24 December elections, with the 30 percent legal measures still outstanding: Election Commission
UN News (May 21, 2021): Libya: Ceasefire, planned elections, offer rare window of hope, Security Council hears
Lebanon Parliamentary Elections: May 2022 (due
Lebanon is due to hold general elections in May 2022, although some parties have called for early elections. Lebanon has been in a political crisis and without a government since the port explosion in Beirut, in which 215 people died, 7,500 were injured, and 300,000 were left homeless. Moreover, the country is in an economic crisis.
Kareem Chehayeb, Al Jazeera (May 24, 2021): ‘Little hope left’: Lebanon’s paralysis and a collapsing state
Najia Houssari, Arab News (May 24, 2021): Lebanese parties reject the return to ‘militia behavior’ amid anger over pro-Assad rallies
Turkey General Elections: By June 25, 2023 (snap elections possible)
Although Turkey is not due for general elections until 2023, there have been rumors of possible snap elections.
Burhanetin Duran, Daily Sabah (May 25, 2021): Critical centennial elections in Turkey
Palestinian Authority Presidential and Legislative Elections: Long overdue, postponed indefinitely
The Palestinian Authority has postponed its long overdue elections for the legislature and president, which had been scheduled for May 22 and July 31, respectively. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is currently in year 16 of a four-year term. Similarly, the last Legislative Council elections took place in 2006.
Since the announcement of the delay, the conflict between Hamas and Israel reignited. Following 11 days of fighting, the parties reached a ceasefire on May 20. More
Michelle Kelemen, NPR (May 25, 2021): Blinken Has Promised More Aid For Palestinians, Continued Support For Israel
Elliott Abrams, Council on Foreign Relations (May 24, 2021): Palestinian Politics After the Gaza Conflict
Mariah Franklin, Foreign Brief (May 22, 2021): First Palestinian elections in 15 years to be postponed
Emad Mouss, The New Arab (May 20, 2021): Why cancelled elections cast a long shadow over Palestinian political revival
Eli Lake, Bloomberg (May 19, 2021): A Cease-Fire Is Not Enough When It Comes to Hamas: The U.S. and its allies need to help Palestinians improve their elections and civil society.
Past Middle East Elections
Israel Parliamentary Elections, Take 4: March 23, 2021
On March 23, 2021, Israel held its fourth general election in two years after the collapse of the unity government of Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz. Neither Netanyahu’s allies nor his opponents won a majority, so if anyone wants to form a government, they will need to get creative. Netanyahu, whose conservative Likud party won the most seats, had the first chance to form a coalition, but he failed.
Yair Lapid from the centrist Yesh Atid is currently trying to form a coalition, but a fifth election remains a possibility. More
Michael Hauser Tov and Noa Shpigel, Haaretz (May 24, 2021): Israel Election: Sa’ar Rules Out Joining Netanyahu-led Government After Reports of Negotiations
Idan Zonshine, Jerusalem Post (May 23, 2021): Lapid, Gantz rising in first election polls after Gaza conflict
James Rothwell, The Telegraph (May 22, 2021): Israel’s prime minister heading for fifth election after Gaza conflict saves political career
Danielle Pletka, The Dispatch (May 21, 2021): Why Israel Might Be Headed Toward Yet Another Parliamentary Election
Josef Federman, AP (May 20, 2021): Netanyahu’s prospects bolstered amid Israel-Hamas fighting
Kuwait Parliamentary Elections: December 5, 2020
Kuwait held parliamentary elections on December 5, 2020. As could be expected, COVID-19 and the government’s response shaped public debate ahead of the elections. Meanwhile, populism is on the rise, exacerbated by the pandemic and falling oil prices. More
Reuters (May 25, 2021): Kuwait opposition MPs take ministers’ seats in parliament protest
Middle East Elections in 2021 and 2022
Syria Presidential Election: May 26, 2021
Algeria Snap Parliamentary Elections: June 10, 2021
Iran Presidential and Local Elections: June 18, 2021
Pakistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir Elections: June/July 2021 (proposed – date not set yet)
Jordan Local and Gubernatorial Elections: August 2021 (due)
Morocco Elections: September 8, 2021
Iraq Parliamentary Elections: October 10, 2021
Qatar Shura Council Elections: October 2021 (proposed)
Libya Presidential and Parliamentary Elections: December 24, 2021
Lebanon Parliamentary Elections: May 2022 (due)
Bahrain Parliamentary Elections: Due in November 2022
Egypt Local Elections: Due and discussed, but not scheduled
Oman Municipal Elections: Due, but postponed due to COVID-19
Palestinian Authority Presidential and Legislative Elections: Long overdue, postponed yet again, no date set
21votes does not necessarily agree with all of the opinions expressed in the linked articles; rather, our goal is to curate a wide range of voices. Furthermore, none of the individuals or organizations referenced have reviewed 21votes’ content, and their inclusion should not be taken to imply that they endorse us in any way. More on our approach here.