OSCE/ODIHR, in Skopje, presents recommendations from final election observation report

A team from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) visited Skopje from 2 to 4 October 2013 to present the final report of the Election Observation Mission for the 24 March municipal elections.

The report’s findings and recommendations were presented to officials from the Foreign Affairs, Justice and Interior ministries, as well as from the parliament, the State Election Commission, and other government agencies. The team also met with representatives from political parties, civil society, the international community and the media.

The recommendations highlighted the need to address the lack of detail on key issues concerning voter and candidate registration, campaigning, campaign finance and media coverage.

The report also recommends further efforts to provide a clear and detailed process for the lodging of complaints and appeals, and that the authorities properly investigate allegations of voter intimidation and take appropriate action where sufficient evidence of intimidation is found.

The team emphasized that ODIHR is ready to assist in the implementation of the recommendations, upon the request of the authorities. All OSCE participating States have committed themselves to promptly follow up on ODIHR’s election assessments and recommendations.