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The UK Electoral Commission and Central Electoral Commission of Ukraine yesterday (Tuesday) signed an agreement to develop and deepen cooperation on electoral matters, during a visit of the Ukrainian Electoral Commission to London. 

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) affirms a joint commitment to safeguard democratic processes and establishes a framework for cooperation in the coming years. 

Cooperation will take many forms including the Commissions sharing best practice on electoral administration, cybersecurity, and voter education. 

The visit was hosted in conjunction with the Council of Europe and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The Ukrainian delegation took part in a number of meetings in the UK, discussing issues such as mis- and dis-information, foreign interference in elections, physical and cybersecurity in elections, out of country voting, public awareness raising, and political finance regulation. The information will assist the Ukrainian Commission in its planning for future post-war elections. 

Vijay Rangarajan, Chief Executive of the Electoral Commission, yesterday said:

“We are proud to welcome our colleagues and friends from Ukraine to the UK and sign this agreement of cooperation. There is a lot that we can learn from each other, and deepening the ties between us will help us share expertise and learning in the coming years. 

“The delivery of well-run elections that command public confidence and trust is crucial to a healthy and free democracy. We stand ready to support Ukraine as it prepares for future post-war elections.” 

Oleh Didenko, Chair of the Central Election Commission of Ukraine, yesterday said:

“We greatly appreciate this visit and the United Kingdom's support. I would call the signing of the memorandum between our institutions a landmark moment that will promote our cooperation and, through the exchange of experience and the adoption of best practices, will help to strengthen democratic values in Ukraine. 

“As we prepare for challenging post-war elections, establishing cooperation and familiarising ourselves with important processes such as voting abroad and combatting disinformation, will enable us to prepare effectively and efficiently for the most challenging elections in our country's history.” 

Photographs of the signing can be found on the Electoral Commission website and are available to use. 

Notes to Editors

• The UK and Ukraine governments signed a 100 Year Partnership (Opens in new window) in January to deepen security ties and strengthen partnership. 
• Ukraine has been under martial law since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. According to the Constitution of Ukraine and respective legislation, elections cannot be held under martial law. The organisation and delivery of elections in Ukraine can only take place after martial law is lifted. 
• The UK Electoral Commission is the independent body which oversees elections and regulates political finance in the UK. We work to promote public confidence in the democratic process and ensure its integrity by:
  • enabling the delivery of free and fair elections and referendums, focusing on the needs of electors and addressing the changing environment to ensure every vote remains secure and accessible
  • regulating political finance – taking proactive steps to increase transparency, ensure compliance and pursue breaches
  • using our expertise to make and advocate for changes to our democracy, aiming to improve fairness, transparency and efficiency
• The Commission was set up in 2000 and reports to the UK, Welsh and Scottish Parliaments.