Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia: ODIHR final report stresses need for political will to improve electoral process

SKOPJE/WARSAW, 17 June 2005 - The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, ODIHR, has published the final report of its Election Observation Mission to the 2005 Municipal Elections in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

The report offers a series of recommendations to assist the authorities in improving the election process, which proved problematic in a number of municipalities. The report also emphasizes that political will is essential for any improvements to positively impact the process.

In the report, the ODIHR urges the authorities to take prompt and vigorous action to curtail any toleration for election related offences in order to restore the rule of law and confidence in the election process. The Office is aware that cases of electoral violations are being investigated and encourages the authorities not to take a selective approach to this process.

"We appreciate that the authorities plan to expedite reform of the election legislation," said the ODIHR Director, Ambassador Christian Strohal. "However, such a process takes time to allow for consultation with the political parties, international experts and the public. This will help to ensure public confidence in the resulting legislation."

The ODIHR encourages further discussion on issues relating to voter lists and reiterates the need to set up a secretariat of the State Election Commission, as foreseen by law.

The ODIHR stands ready to support the efforts of the authorities, political parties and civil society. In particular it could provide expert commentary on draft legislation at key points in the process.

The Office is coordinating its follow-up efforts closely with the OSCE Spillover Mission, which will be offering broad assistance to the authorities in following up on the recommendations.