Need for more transparency and pluralism stressed at OSCE/ODIHR meeting on electoral reform in Tajikistan
DUSHANBE, 8 December 2010 - Participants in a meeting on electoral reform organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in co-operation with the OSCE Office in Tajikistan today stressed the importance of increasing transparency and pluralism in Tajikistan.
The event, which brought together ODIHR experts and representatives of the authorities, political parties and civil society, followed the publication of the ODIHR's final report on the 28 February parliamentary elections in Tajikistan. The regulation of political parties and the participation of women and youth in political life are also among the themes of the two-day meeting.
"Future improvements in the electoral framework and practice will depend on the political will of the authorities to ensure a democratic electoral process," said Douglas Wake, ODIHR's Deputy Director.
He encouraged further reform of electoral legislation, including providing for more inclusive and pluralistic formation of lower-level election commissions and removing a requirement that candidates have a higher education.
ODIHR's final report on the February elections concluded that the process failed to meet many key OSCE commitments. The report's recommendations include increasing the transparency and effectiveness of the work of election commissions at all levels and improving election day procedures.
"Strengthening political pluralism in Tajikistan, in line with our report's recommendations, in particular by removing undue restrictions on freedom of expression and ensuring that voters have access to objective and balanced information, is of vital importance," Wake said.
Ambassador Ivar Vikki, the Head of the OSCE Office in Tajikistan, added: "The time to prepare for future elections is now. We look forward to co-operating with all those involved in electoral matters so that Tajikistan can move forward with implementing the recommendations in ODIHR's report."