ODIHR deploys limited mission to Uzbekistan elections

TASHKENT, 22 November 1999 - The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), has decided not to establish a regular election observation mission for the parliamentary elections in the Republic of Uzbekistan scheduled for 5 December 1999. Instead, the ODIHR has deployed a limited assessment mission of election experts.

The ODIHR has decided to adopt this approach because of serious concerns that the broad electoral framework in Uzbekistan will not permit a truly pluralist, competitive election. The ODIHR's specific concerns include:

• The election legislation, which while improved marginally, is still far from meeting the OSCE commitments;
• Involvement of State administration in all aspects of the election process; and
• Restrictions on the fundamental freedoms necessary for the emergence of genuine opposition, as well as for a free and unhindered campaign.

The limited assessment mission will concentrate on the pre-election period and evaluate all aspects of the electoral process leading up to the day of the election. Preliminary findings will be issued after the close of the polls. In a final report more detailed conclusions and recommendations will be provided for the Government to consider in order to ensure future compliance with OSCE commitments.

The assessment mission is headed by Ambassador Madeleine Wilkens of Sweden.