The 2020 parliamentary elections in Slovakia were held in a pluralistic environment with respect for fundamental freedoms and a level playing field for contestants to compete. Voters were provided with diverse information, enabling them to make an informed choice. The legal framework provides an overall sound basis for democratic elections but there was lack of clarity on regulation regarding electoral dispute resolution, disclosure of campaign finance, and campaign silence.

These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on Slovakia’s parliamentary elections of 29 February 2020, published today by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). 

The report provides 21 recommendations to improve the conduct of elections and bring them fully in line with OSCE commitments and other international standards.

Recommendations 

Key recommendations include:

• Implementing electoral reforms well in advance of elections, through open and inclusive consultations with all stakeholders 
• Ensuring sufficient institutional capacity for the State Election Commission
• Reviewing restrictions on running for office, including those based on criminal conviction, disability and residency
• Handing the authority to supervise campaign finance to an independent institution that has adequate capacity and resources
• Decriminalising defamation and cancelling the right of reply for politicians and public officials
• Providing more legal clarity to guarantee quick conclusions for election-related disputes 
• Making greater efforts to help persons with disabilities to vote 

ODIHR deployed an Election Assessment Mission (EAM) on 18 February 2020 to observe the parliamentary elections. All countries across the OSCE region have formally committed to follow up promptly on ODIHR’s election assessments and recommendations.