New Delhi: India has been elected President of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) for the 2025–2028 term, securing 87 out of 141 votes in the election held on 3 June 2025. The victory, which saw India receive 61.7% of the vote against Austria’s 54 votes, reflects broad international backing from member countries. South Africa, which had initially contested the election, withdrew its candidacy in support of India last month.

The Indian candidacy was represented by V Srinivas, Secretary of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), whose nomination was submitted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2024. With India winning the presidency, the country will now lead a global network focused on advancing research and collaboration in public administration.

Established in 1930, the IIAS is a federation comprising 31 Member Countries, 20 National Sections, and 15 Academic Research Centres. India has been a member since 1998. Other member countries include Japan, China, Germany, Italy, Korea, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Switzerland, Mexico, Spain, Qatar, Morocco, and Indonesia.

While not formally affiliated with the United Nations, the IIAS actively participates in its public administration-related activities, including the UN Committee of Experts on Public Administration (CEPA) and the UN Public Administration Network (UNPAN).

Under India’s leadership, the IIAS will focus on advancing administrative reforms that align with the Government of India’s vision of “Maximum Governance – Minimum Government.” The priorities include digital empowerment of citizens, transformation of institutions through technology, and promoting inclusive governance by bridging the North–South divide.

BI Bureau