Bénin: CENA officials receive AI training in India to modernize elections

From July 6 to 10, 2026, a delegation of officials from the Autonomous National Electoral Commission (Commission Électorale Nationale Autonome, CENA) is attending a specialized training program in New Delhi, India. The focus? Harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance electoral processes and strengthen democratic governance.

AI and electoral innovation: a global training initiative

The intensive five-day program is hosted by the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) framework. Its goal is to equip electoral officials with practical skills in applying AI across key election-related domains, including administration, governance, and security.

Participants are exploring several critical areas:

• AI-driven electoral administration and digital governance;
• Ethical considerations and human rights protections in AI use;
• Cybersecurity strategies to safeguard electoral integrity;
• Risk management frameworks for technological adoption;
• Legal and regulatory compliance in deploying AI systems.

Interactive learning and international collaboration

The curriculum blends expert-led lectures with hands-on activities, including real-world case studies, live demonstrations, and interactive workshops. Participants also engage in peer-to-peer exchanges with electoral officials from multiple countries, fostering cross-border insights and best practices.

This training represents a significant step in the CENA’s broader modernization agenda. By integrating AI-powered solutions, the Commission aims to build a more transparent, efficient, and secure electoral ecosystem—one that aligns with global standards and responds to the evolving demands of digital democracy.

Building a future-ready electoral commission

For the CENA, adopting AI is not just about adopting new tools—it’s about reimagining how elections are organized, monitored, and trusted. The training in India underscores the institution’s commitment to staying ahead of technological advancements while maintaining the highest standards of accountability and inclusivity in every electoral process.