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About Vidar Helgesen

Vidar Helgesen is secretary-general of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). He formerly served as special advisor to the president of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Geneva (1998-2001), and as deputy minister of foreign affairs of Norway (2001-05)

Articles by Vidar Helgesen

Thursday 19th January

Tunisia: the power of example

Vidar Helgesen, 19 January 2012

The pioneering role of Tunisia in the Arab awakening is being sustained a year on as it negotiates its democratic transition, says Vidar Helgesen.

Saturday 24th December

2012, the age of the citizen

Vidar Helgesen, 24 December 2011

The dramatic citizens' uprisings and protests across the world this year are signals of an emerging era that demands a renewal of democracy itself, says Vidar Helgesen.

Monday 29th August

Libya: a time for patience

Vidar Helgesen, 29 August 2011

The task of building a democratic and inclusive Libya with working institutions must overcome the international community’s key flaw as well as the Gaddafi regime’s legacy, says Vidar Helgesen.

Wednesday 3rd August

Tahrir Square: snapshot of revolution

Vidar Helgesen, 3 August 2011

A huge gathering in central Cairo on 29 July 2011 is a measure of the fluid state of Egypt’s political transformation, says Vidar Helgesen.

Wednesday 16th February

Arab democracy rising: international lessons

Vidar Helgesen, 16 February 2011

The popular revolts in Tunisia, Egypt and elsewhere in the middle east are driven by a profound democratic impulse. This represents both learning and test for international democracy actors, says Vidar Helgesen.

Thursday 17th September