A presidential election is a formal process through which a head of state with the title of President is elected. These elections are significant political events that determine the leadership and direction of a country. They typically involve candidates from various political parties campaigning to win the support of the electorate. The process, rules, and systems for conducting presidential elections vary widely across different nations. Some use direct voting by citizens, while others may involve an electoral college or parliamentary vote. Presidential elections often have profound impacts on a country's domestic and international policies and can lead to significant political and social changes.
1934: First presidential election in Mexico
In 1934, Mexico held its first presidential election. However, these elections were not considered to meet international standards until 1994, signifying an evolving democratic process.
1979: Iranian Revolution leads to election changes
In 1979, the Iranian Revolution resulted in the overthrow of the monarchy, paving the way for the first presidential election in 1980. This revolution significantly altered Iran's political landscape.
1980: First presidential election in Iran
The first presidential election in Iran occurred in 1980, following the Iranian Revolution of 1979. This election was a significant event in establishing the new political structure after the overthrow of the monarchy.
1990: Kazakh presidential election by Supreme Soviet
In 1990, the Kazakh presidential election was conducted indirectly by the Supreme Soviet of the Kazakh SSR. This election method was later replaced by direct popular vote elections.
1991: First direct presidential election in Kazakhstan
In 1991, Kazakhstan held its first de-facto presidential election, allowing the public to directly elect their president. This event occurred during the dissolution of the Soviet Union, marking a significant transition in Kazakhstan's political system.
1991: First presidential election in Russia
In 1991, Russia conducted its first presidential election, allowing the public to elect the president for a six-year term. This event marked a crucial transition in Russia's political system post-Soviet Union.
1991: First presidential election in Ukraine
The first presidential election in Ukraine took place in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. This election allowed Ukrainian citizens to elect their president for a five-year term.
1994: Mexican presidential elections meet international standards
By 1994, presidential elections in Mexico were deemed to meet international standards, highlighting a milestone in the country's democratic evolution.
1994: First non-racial elections in South Africa
In 1994, South Africa held its first non-racial elections, marking the end of apartheid and allowing all citizens to participate in choosing their president. This election was a pivotal moment in the country's history, symbolizing equality and democracy.
2002: French presidential term changed
In 2002, the French presidential term was officially set to five years, allowing citizens to elect their president through a popular vote. This adjustment aimed to synchronize the presidential term with the legislative term.
2004: Indonesia adopts popular vote for presidential elections
Since 2004, Indonesia has held presidential elections determined by popular vote, allowing citizens to directly elect their president and vice president for a maximum of two five-year terms. This shift enhanced democratic participation in the country.
2013: First direct presidential election in Czech Republic
In 2013, the Czech Republic held its first direct presidential election, as the previous elections were conducted indirectly by the Parliament. This change marked a significant shift in the country's election process.
2014: Turkey adopts popular vote for presidential elections
In 2014, Turkey began holding presidential elections determined by popular vote, moving away from the previous indirect election by Parliament. This change aimed to increase democratic participation.
2015: Voter registration in Tanzania
As of 2015, Tanzania had registered 24,001,134 voters using a Biometric Voters Register kit, enhancing the integrity and participation in the electoral process.
2017: Overseas voting in South Korea's presidential election
During the 2017 South Korean presidential election, overseas Koreans were allowed to vote for the first time. Approximately 220,000 participated, reflecting an inclusive approach to the democratic process.
2020: 2020 Polish presidential election
The 2020 presidential election in Poland was conducted as part of its regular electoral cycle, where the president is elected by popular vote for a five-year term. This election was significant for its role in shaping Poland's political landscape.
2022: Bongbong Marcos elected as president of the Philippines
In 2022, Bongbong Marcos was elected as the 17th president of the Philippines, following the general election where the president serves a six-year term. This election marked a significant moment in the country's political history.
2025: Upcoming 2025 Polish presidential election
Looking forward to the 2025 presidential election, Poland prepares for another cycle of democratic engagement, with the president elected by public vote for a five-year term.