International IDEA is saddened by the passing of first Secretary-General Bengt Säve-Söderbergh

It is with great sadness that the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) has received the news that our founding Secretary-General, Bengt Säve-Söderbergh, passed away on Thursday, 5 September. His dedication to the promotion of democracy was unwavering, his passion inspiring to all, and his vision—now reality—will be a global legacy. 

Bengt Säve-Söderbergh played a key role in establishing International IDEA in February 1995. During his tenure as the first Secretary-General from 1995 to 2002, he positioned the Institute at the forefront of electoral assistance, gender equality and democracy support. He transformed a vision of a global hub for democracies into a vibrant intergovernmental organization, now with 35 Member States from around the globe and a growing portfolio of work on fundamental issues to democracy.  

On behalf of International IDEA’s Council of Member States, Board of Advisers, and staff, we want to share our deepest condolences with Bengt’s family and many friends around the world. International IDEA is forever in debt to Bengt. Without his passion and vision there would be no Institute, much less one that continues to thrive and grow. His memory will continue to drive our mission forward.