OSCE/ODIHR experts discuss follow-up to final report on 2013 presidential election with Czech authorities

Elections experts from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) met in Prague with representatives of the Czech Ministry of the Interior on 4 February 2015 to discuss the follow-up on the recommendations from ODIHR’s final report on the 11-12 January 2013 presidential election.

The discussions focused on the ODIHR Election Assessment Mission’s recommendations on voter and candidate registration, campaign finance, the resolution of electoral disputes, the work of the election administration, and access for international and citizen election observers. Representatives from the Ministry also highlighted steps already taken to address recommendations, including draft amendments to the legal framework.

“The legal amendments proposed by the authorities provide an example of the type of co-operation that can turn recommendations into concrete measures to improve electoral processes,” said Richard Lappin, ODIHR Senior Election Adviser. “We’re always ready to support authorities in this process, including through the review of draft or final amendments to election legislation.”

The experts also met with the Council for Radio and Television Broadcasting to discuss the implementation of recommendations related to the composition of the body and the scope of its activities.

All OSCE participating States have committed themselves to follow up on ODIHR's election assessments and recommendations.