WASHINGTON, D.C.–Given the increasingly important role that technology is playing in democratic reform efforts globally, the National Democratic Institute (NDI) has named Sarah Oh to serve as its partnerships representative in Silicon Valley. Oh will be based at the Impact Hub in San Francisco, a collaborative working space that describes itself as part innovation lab, part business incubator and part community center.

As Georgians prepare to elect a new president in October, they enjoy an electoral environment shaped by the fundamentals of democracy: the first peaceful transfer of power through the ballot box; a credible political opposition; a parliament characterized by meaningful debate and decisions; an increasingly  independent judiciary;  an active civil society;  and a lively media environment. But to achieve a peaceful and credible election process, Georgian officials need to decisively tackle issues that could adversely affect the integrity of the election process.