OSCE/ODIHR Election Observation Missions
As part of its democratization activities, the OSCE carries out election assistance projects in the lead-up to or following elections. The Election Observation Missions are counted among these activities. The OSCE observes elections throughout its 57 participating States. Over the past 15 years, the organization has developed an observation methodology that is at the forefront of international efforts in this field.
An ODIHR election observer speaks with an official at a polling station in Yerevan during parliamentary elections in Armenia, 12 May 2007 (© OSCE/Urdur Gunnarsdottir)
The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) fields election observation teams to participating States to assess the implementation of OSCE commitments relating to elections and to observe the entire electoral process. ODIHR does not recruit observers directly. Observers are generally seconded through the ODIHR by the OSCE participating States. When a decision is made to observe an election the ODIHR requests long and short term observers by notifying the OSCE participating States.
The methodology of election monitoring can be found in the Election Observation Handbook.
The procedure for recruiting observers varies from country to country. In the Czech Republic the process is co-ordinated by the National Focal Point of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (nkm@mzv.cz).
You can also find general information on elections and election observation on the website of ODIHR.
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