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Principles and Guidelines for Observing and Reporting on Elections
By adhering to these principles and guidelines, election observers can contribute to the credibility and transparency of electoral processes while supporting the strengthening of democratic institutions and the rule of law.
Impartiality and Neutrality
Maintain absolute neutrality and refrain from expressing personal opinions about political parties, candidates, or electoral outcomes.
Avoid activities, interactions, or appearances that could compromise the perception of impartiality.
Respect for National Sovereignty
Observe elections within the legal and regulatory framework of the host country.
Respect the authority of electoral management bodies and abide by local laws and regulations.
Professionalism and Integrity
Act with honesty, integrity, and respect in all aspects of the observation mission.
Avoid conflicts of interest that could undermine the credibility of the mission.
Non-Interference
Do not interfere with the electoral process or attempt to influence its outcome.
Observe without disrupting the work of election officials, voters, or other stakeholders.
Confidentiality
Safeguard sensitive information, such as internal findings or communications, until an official report is released.
Avoid disclosing preliminary findings publicly without the approval of mission leadership.
Accurate and Evidence-Based Reporting
Base all observations and reports on verified facts and direct evidence.
Avoid making speculative or unsubstantiated claims about the electoral process or outcomes.
Comprehensive Monitoring
Assess all stages of the electoral process, including voter registration, campaigning, polling, counting, and post-election dispute resolution.
Pay attention to inclusivity and accessibility, especially for marginalized groups, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
Respect for Human Rights
Monitor the electoral process in light of international human rights standards.
Report any violations of voter rights, freedom of expression, or political participation.
Collaboration and Coordination
Work closely with other observers, civil society organizations, and relevant stakeholders to ensure comprehensive coverage and avoid duplication.
Follow the directives of mission leadership and adhere to the standardized methodology.
Transparency in Reporting
Share findings in a clear, concise, and objective manner, ensuring they are accessible to stakeholders and the public.
Publish final reports promptly and ensure recommendations are actionable and constructive.
Safety and Security
Prioritise personal safety and security while conducting observations, particularly in volatile environments.
Comply with security protocols established by the observation mission.
Accountability
Be accountable for actions and decisions taken during the observation mission.
Accept constructive feedback and continuously strive to improve observation practices.