In addition to sponsoring the U.S. presidential debates, the U.S. Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) has partnered with NDI to assist groups in dozens of countries seeking to establish debates of their own. In a publication distributed to attendees at the U.S.

In a diverse range of countries, candidate debates have become an increasingly effective means of promoting fair electoral competition and enhancing civic education efforts. In environments where leaders are more often chosen on the basis of personality, religion or ethnicity, such forums help voters make more informed choices at the ballot box.