Report supported by OSCE Mission to Skopje highlights need to improve election process

SKOPJE, 19 December 2008 - A report supported by the OSCE Mission to Skopje that puts forward recommendations to improve elections in the country was presented today.

The report aims to address the shortcomings that occurred in the June parliamentary elections. It is part of a project, implemented by the local non-governmental organization coalition All for Fair Trial, to work towards a fair and democratic election process and respect for the rule of law in the country.

"The problems which occurred during the early parliamentary elections presented a challenge for democratic society. This project will assist the authorities to strengthen their response against such irregularities, and to enhance the rule of law in the country," said Jovdat Mammadov, the Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission's Rule of Law Department.

Bekim Hoxha, a project co-ordinator from the All for Fair Trial Coalition, added: "The report will assist the process of systemic improvement to overcome electoral irregularities and raise citizens' trust in the institutions."

Among other measures, the report highlights the need to strengthen the capacity of the State Election Commission and calls for better co-ordination between the commission and the other state bodies providing logistical support for the election process.