107
Somaliland’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) has received the ICPS Excellence Award 2025, an international honour recognizing outstanding transparency, innovation, and professionalism in election management.
The award was presented during the 21st Annual International Electoral Awards and Symposium held in Gaborone, Botswana, from October 1–4. The event, organized by the International Centre for Parliamentary Studies (ICPS) in the United Kingdom and hosted by Botswana’s Independent Electoral Commission (IEC–Botswana), celebrates global achievements in democratic governance.
In a statement, the NEC expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a milestone for Somaliland’s democratic journey.
“We are deeply honoured by this award and by your recognition of Somaliland’s progress. Our appreciation goes to all who have stood with us, at home and abroad. With hope in our hearts, we look forward to the day Somaliland is fully embraced by the international community. That day will be a victory for all of us,” the Commission said.
The ICPS cited Somaliland’s adoption of Biometric Voter Registration and Verification (BVRS/BVVS), a system that eliminates duplicate voting and strengthens public confidence, as a defining factor in its selection. The NEC was also commended for conducting ten peaceful national elections and a constitutional referendum over the past three decades, establishing a consistent record of credible and interference-free polls.
Observers at the symposium praised Somaliland’s model of community-driven democracy, noting that its commitment to transparent elections continues to inspire emerging democracies across the region.
The ICPS Excellence Award is among the world’s most prestigious honours in electoral governance, reserved for institutions demonstrating innovation, operational integrity, and the ability to foster voter trust.
The recognition elevates Somaliland’s global profile as a stable, self-governing territory that has maintained a functioning democratic system despite the absence of international recognition.
“This honour belongs to the people of Somaliland,” the NEC added. “It is their belief in ballots over bullets that has allowed democracy to take root and flourish.”
