ODIHR Core Group of Experts on Political Parties - Annual Meeting

At a time when democratic institutions and political pluralism face growing challenges across the OSCE region, the members of the ODIHR Core Group of Experts on Political Parties will gather in Warsaw to discuss how their expertise can guide OSCE participating States in strengthening legal and institutional frameworks for political parties.

Comprising 14 newly appointed members selected through an open and competitive process in late 2024, the Core Group reflects a gender balance, regional diversity, and a diverse range of professional backgrounds.

The two-day meeting marked the first gathering of the group in its new composition.

During the meeting, participants will examine recent developments and challenges in regulating political parties, including concerns about transparency, internal democracy, and the impact of restrictive legislation.

The meeting will offer an opportunity to enrich international dialogue on political party regulation and strengthen democratic resilience across OSCE participating States, while also expanding the conversation to important emerging topics not fully covered in the last edition of the Guidelines on Political Party Regulation, such as:

• Regulation and functioning of political parties under martial law and states of emergency
• Impact of digital technologies on party operations and campaigning
• New international standards on gender parity
• Role and effectiveness of oversight mechanisms

Participation is by invitation only.

The Core Group was established in 2011 as an advisory and consultative body to ODIHR.  It contributes to legal analyses and the development of legislative guidelines to ensure that the legislation and practices of OSCE participating States regarding political party regulation align with their commitments in this area.