Methodology – Retrospective Report on the 44th General Election of September 20, 2021
Elections Canada developed a framework to guide the assessment of its performance in delivering the 44th general election. This framework builds on the agency's departmental results and identifies the expected outcomes it aims to achieve for Canadians.
The agency's performance was assessed against the following expected outcomes identified before the election:
- The health and safety of Canadians is protected when voting.
- Electors have access to a variety of inclusive voting options that meet their needs.
- Political entities receive the support and information they need to meet the requirements of the Canada Elections Act.
- Canadians have confidence in the integrity and security of the electoral process.
- Returning officers are adequately supported in the administration and delivery of the election.
In assessing its performance, the agency considered public opinion research with additional post-election analyses, official reports and audit findings, stakeholder feedback and research. This report is also informed by qualitative information and quantitative data from more than 40 subject matter experts across the agency. Findings and action items were derived from:
- Feedback from subject matter experts, including post-election analyses.
- Feedback from key stakeholder groups.
- The Returning Officers' Report of Proceedings Summary for the 44th general election.
- Action items from the 43rd general election.
- The independent audit report on the performance of the duties and functions of election officers, completed by PricewaterhouseCoopers.
The assessment and related findings are divided into three sections: Electoral Services, Electoral Integrity and Support for Returning Officers. Each section includes specific commitments to address the findings of this report and ensure continuous improvement overall.
This retrospective report supports Elections Canada's commitment to results-based management and the capacity to identify areas for improvement going forward.