ODIHR experts discuss electoral recommendations and reform in Georgia
Election experts from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) presented the final report on Georgia’s 2021 local elections during a visit to Tbilisi that took place from 31 October to 3 November 2022.
The experts discussed the report’s key findings and recommendations with representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Central Election Commission, the Parliament’s Legal Issues Committee, the State Audit Office, the Ombudsperson, Tbilisi City Court, as well as representatives of political parties, civil society and media.
“We appreciate the constructive discussions with our counterparts. During these meetings we underlined that political will to implement ODIHR’s recommendations through an inclusive dialogue with wide range of electoral stakeholders is crucial in the efforts to advance democratic reforms towards a genuinely pluralistic political environment,” said Ambassador Albert Jónsson, Head of the ODIHR Election Observation Mission. “We welcome the willingness of the authorities to engage in the follow-up activities and they can rely on ODIHR's support and expertise in this process.”
ODIHR drew attention to its priority recommendations contained in the report, including on a comprehensive review of election laws, addressing intimidation and pressure on voters and candidates, and misuse of state resources, improving the level playing field, enhancing transparency of the lower-level election commissions’ selection, strengthening the campaign finance oversight, protecting safety of journalists, and others. ODIHR experts also held a dedicated discussion related to the implementation of gender-related electoral recommendations.
The ODIHR experts learnt about the ongoing electoral reform process, and welcomed the decision of the authorities to request ODIHR and the Venice Commission opinion on the draft amendments to the Election Code. Moreover, the experts offered further forms of assistance, including expert discussions, thematic workshops and electoral stakeholders expressed commitment to engage in further discussions and follow-up activities with ODIHR to bring Georgia’s elections closer in line with international standards and commitments.
All OSCE participating States have committed to promptly follow up on ODIHR’s electoral assessments and recommendations.