Around 70 countries in the world still criminalize same-sex relationships. In 11 of these countries, there is evidence of the death penalty occuring or being ‘allowed” for same-sex relationships. A quarter of the world’s population believes that being LGBTQI+ should be a crime. 

The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented global crisis still sending shock waves across public health systems, governance structures and markets. In response, parliaments had to quickly adapt to the new environment by not only adjusting their procedures and operations to respond to quarantine demands, but also passing legislation to address the emergency.

From COVID to climate to quakes, crises have become the new normal. Around the world, governments are grappling with simultaneous emergencies and the situation is only going to get worse. Experts predict that children born this year will experience a sevenfold increase in extreme weather events compared to their grandparents.

The National Democratic Institute (NDI) has released the results of its latest national survey in Ukraine. According to the study, completed in July - August 2021, Ukrainians remain united in their desire for the country's democratic future. Although the overall mood in the country is less optimistic compared to previous waves, people in Ukraine are still politically engaged and are willing to provide their input to the government.

The National Democratic Institute (NDI) conducted quantitative and qualitative public opinion research between March and June 2021 in Lebanon, that examined the legacy of the protest movement, how people feel about the government, political parties, and politicians, who citizens trust to represent their needs, and what people see as the best possibilities for reform. 

The key findings and themes that emerged from the research are:

WASHINGTON – Expert teams from the International Republican Institute (IRI) and the National Democratic Institute (NDI) are visiting Tbilisi immediately ahead of the October 2, 2021, municipal elections and are calling on all political parties to uphold democratic principles by participating actively and in good faith during the elections and in the post-election period. If the parties genuinely commit themselves to constructive competition and dialogue rooted in citizen interests, Georgia can maintain its legitimate place among the region's democracies.

The National Democratic Institute (NDI) developed this comprehensive guide on the management and execution of transitions of power. This unique resource was developed by experts and former officials with direct experience managing transitions across different political contexts and geographical regions.