The 48 political parties contesting Indonesia's first free election for more than 40 years began the final stage of their campaigns.

ECONOMIST: Peace?

Gloucestershire Against Badger Shooting is asking the parties contesting the county council election in May to make council land a no-cull zone.

BBC: Campaigners seek badger no-cull zone on council land

More than 40 parties have expressed interest in contesting the poll.

ECONOMIST: Cambodia

Parties qualify for election broadcasts by contesting 50 seats or more.

ECONOMIST: Party election broadcasts

In total, there are over 8, 000 candidates contesting almost 400 provincial seats and representing about 140 parties and coalitions.

BBC: Q&A: Iraqi provincial elections

Many parties, old and new, are contesting the election.

ECONOMIST: Heading for uncertainty