> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://wiki.worldrepublic.org/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Test elections

> Large scale global democracy experiments.

**Test elections** are the proving ground for the World Republic. They serve a dual purpose:

1. **Political incubation:** Giving new political parties a platform to grow before binding governance begins.
2. **Technical stress test:** Ensuring our systems are secure and scalable.

## How it works

Unlike traditional elections with complex qualification rules, our test elections are designed for maximum openness.

* **Automatic ballot access:** Every registered party automatically appears on the ballot. There are no signature requirements or filing fees.
* **Iterative schedule:** Elections occur iteratively as we refine the system. Once the technological foundation is stable, we will move to a regular, predictable election cycle.

## Real incentives

While the political outcomes of test elections are not yet binding, the **economic outcomes are real**.

Participating parties earn **drachma subsidies** based on their performance. This funding allows serious parties to hire staff, create content, and grow their movement during this incubation phase.

<Card title="Party subsidies" icon="hand-holding-dollar" iconType="light" href="/building-blocks/party-subsidies">
  Learn how we distribute funding proportionally to test election results
</Card>

## The path to binding governance

We are currently in the **incubation phase**. As the system matures and participation grows, we will gradually increase the stakes.

1. **Phase 1 (current):** Test elections. Non-binding governance, but real economic rewards.
2. **Phase 2:** Limited governance. Winning parties vote on platform parameters.
3. **Phase 3:** Full sovereignty. Binding global elections for the World Republic administration.