ODIHR, Council of Europe observers say second round of Serbian presidential election in line with international standards

BELGRADE, 4 February 2008 - International observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) concluded that the second round of voting in Serbia's presidential election yesterday was conducted in line with OSCE and Council of Europe commitments for democratic elections. 

"Political parties' access to all stages of the process and the transparency of the election administration further enhanced confidence in the election," said Nikolai Vulchanov, head of the ODIHR observer mission. "The high turnout once again confirms that Serbia has built a strong foundation for democracy."

"I was impressed by the maturity shown by the people of Serbia, and I also congratulate both candidates for their commitment to democratic principles," said Andreas Gross, head of the PACE delegation. "I hope that the President is able to build the much-needed bridges in society to strengthen the process of European integration."

Incumbent President Boris Tadic of the Democratic Party and Tomislav Nikolic of the Serbian Radical Party campaigned actively ahead of the second round, offering voters a choice between two distinct political perspectives. The campaign environment was competitive and calm, the media provided equitable access to both candidates, and the process was efficiently administered.

To read more about the mission's findings, please see the complete statement, which is available on the right under "documents".