OSCE/ODIHR sends observers to monitor Bulgaria's parliamentary elections

SOFIA, 16 June 2009 - The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today deployed eight long-term observers throughout Bulgaria to monitor preparations for the 5 July parliamentary elections.

The long-term observers are part of a limited election observation mission which has been sent by ODIHR following an invitation from the Bulgarian authorities.

The mission is led by Ambassador Colin Munro, the former chief representative of the United Kingdom at the OSCE in Vienna.

In addition to the long-term observers, the mission also includes seven election experts based in Sofia since last week.

The limited election observation mission will assess the electoral process for its compliance with OSCE commitments and other international standards, as well as national legislation.

The observers will monitor campaign activities, the legislative framework and its implementation, the media coverage and environment, the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies, the resolution of election-related disputes, and the participation of national minorities in the electoral process.

No systematic observation of polling station procedures is planned but a small number of polling stations will be visited on election day.