5.3 During the Election Campaign

Once an election period begins, election officials must run the election according to relevant election laws. For Australia’s Electoral Management Body, the mission is simple: “deliver the franchise” (Australian Election Commission, n.d). That mission involves several core functions: voter roll management, election management, education, and communication (Thomas & Gibson, 2015). Similarly, in the United Kingdom, the Electoral Commission works to “promote public confidence in the democratic process and ensure its integrity” (Electoral Commission, 2025). While the specific mechanics will vary, the execution of an election will involve several steps. The relevant election authorities must start planning their schedule, solidifying the list of candidates and voters, and communicating the necessary information to voters.

Establish the Electoral Calendar

Elections in the United States follow predictable timetables. The system of fixed election dates prescribes set dates for primary elections and general elections months and even years in advance (Ballotpedia, 2025b). Many countries, however, don’t have that luxury. Elections can be triggered by resignations of governments or the dissolution of parliament. These can be unexpected. For example, election calls in New Zealand trigger a seven to eight-week election period, which is a tight timeframe for hiring staff and securing voting locations (Thomas & Gibson, 2015). Most electoral calendars identify milestones and deadlines for candidate recruitment, voter registration, and ballot printing (ACE Electoral Knowledge Network, n.d.-d). The graphic below provides an example of an election timeline in a Parliamentary system.

Register Parties and Candidates

During the election campaign, EMBs will also establish a process and deadlines for individuals who wish to register as candidates. Candidates in plurality systems are often nominated individually through a nomination meeting in the electoral district. By contrast, parties in proportional systems might have more centralized control over the placement of candidates on party lists (ACE Electoral Knowledge Network, n.d.-b).

Candidate Criteria

Most systems require candidates to meet minimum requirements, such as proving geographic residency, paying of fees or deposits, or obtaining signatures (ACE Electoral Knowledge Network, n.d.-b). In Canada, for example, candidates may stand for election after completing nomination paperwork and presenting a list of signatures from eligible electors (Elections Canada, 2024). Political parties will also have minimum requirements to meet.

Voter outreach and education

EMB’s are responsible for communicating information to voters about upcoming elections. These education and outreach initiatives are often targeted at low-propensity voters or voters who might otherwise face barriers to voting (ACE Electoral Knowledge Network, n.d.-j)

Elections Canada maintains an online Voter Information Service that houses a collection of resources that includes guides, infographics, frequently asked questions, and a tool to help voters look up their voting location (Elections Canada, 2025 March)

After establishing the candidates and connecting with voters, EMBs must turn their attention to enforcing election laws.