Based on comparative and analytical research, IFES selects a country where there exists an environment for reform or where an enabling event signals change or where an environment for reform can easily be created. IFES conducts a thorough MAP assessment and seeks to establish a consensus for reform though a coalition of the agents of disclosure by holding a MAP Conference and targeted Seminars with key stakeholders.
Together with a reform-minded politician in parliament or the government, and political finance regulator (PFR) IFES reviews and analyzes existing legislation, presents its Model Disclosure Law, drafts commentaries, and proposes new or amended legislation. IFES also works with political finance regulators to draft detailed procedural guidelines to implement new or existing legislation.
IFES facilitates the drafting of comprehensive forms and the development of a Handbook by the PFR together with the regulated community. IFES also provides training (sometimes in partnership with other international organizations) directly to political parties and others in the regulated community on how to keep internal accounts and comply with reporting requirements. IFES also promotes the review of forms by the PFR, political parties, and by CSOs through direct training initiatives.
IFES promotes the disclosure of political accounts and assets by the PFR directly onto the internet using its MAP Database template. In each case the database and website are developed using local talent to be user-friendly, easily accessible, and informative. The database serves both internal enforcement and public oversight purposes. IFES also holds a joint media event with the PFR to launch the database, encourage local ownership, and raise public awareness.
IFES promotes effective monitoring and oversight of the political finance data through workshops for political parties, CSOs and media, and larger working groups with PFRs, CSOs, media, and scholars designed to encourage them to share information with each other. IFES also seeks to promote external complaint mechanism as an important component of this process.
IFES conducts strategic planning sessions for PFRs and CSOs designed to leave a lasting action plan for the implementation of existing changes and the enactment of new reforms. IFES also facilitates a closing conference and media events jointly with the PFR designed to raise awareness, encourage discourse, and enhance sustainability. Finally, the PFR and IFES also conduct programmatic reviews where they seek to identify areas in need of future reform and potential international partners to ensure the sustainability of reform. As a result, the PFR and move to step two and galvanize the process of further reform on its own.