🗳️Plans for Enhancing Electoral Observation in the European Union

Armin Rabitsch from Election-Watch.EU welcomed 32 participants from 23 EU Member States to the workshop. Expectations included peer networking, understanding Election Assessment Mission (EAM) plans, and developing citizen observation methodologies.

Session I: Changing Electoral Practices

Speakers discussed evolving electoral practices, emphasizing the impact of shrinking civic space on observer access and participation. Examples from Poland and Slovakia highlighted efforts to address new challenges, including the use of technology in elections.

Session II: New Regulations and Practices Online

Presentations focused on legislative developments related to political advertising regulation and efforts to combat disinformation. Concerns were raised about the slow progress in implementing regulations and addressing foreign interference.

Session III: Legislative Developments and EU Voter Information Strategy

Updates on pending legislative developments and strategies to increase voter turnout for the 2024 European Parliament elections were discussed. Efforts to collaborate with national election authorities and tech companies were emphasized.

Session IV: Break-out Groups on Legal Framework & Electoral System, Election Administration

Participants discussed priority topics for the upcoming Election Assessment Mission (EAM), including electoral system reforms, legal framework changes, and election administration improvements.

Session V: Voter Registration and Mobile EU Citizens

DG JUST outlined efforts to facilitate voter registration and address challenges faced by mobile EU citizens. Discussions highlighted discrepancies in national legislations and the importance of election observation in building trust.

Session VI: Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Women, National Minorities, Youth, and Civic Space

Speakers addressed issues of inclusion in electoral processes, emphasizing the need for uniform standards and effective representation. Break-out groups discussed strategies to enhance civic space and promote women and minority participation.

Session VII: EU Political Parties, Campaign Finance, Authority for Political Parties and Foundations

Challenges related to campaign finance transparency and the role of EU political parties were discussed. Recommendations included improving transparency in funding and monitoring party independence.

Session VIII: Digital Services Act, Transparency, and Targeting of Political Advertising

Presentations covered elements of the Digital Services Act and strategies to address disinformation and deep fakes. Challenges in regulating social media platforms and accessing data for election observation were highlighted.

Session IX: EAM 2024 – Logistics, Reporting, Communication, Structure

Reflections on the 2019 Election Assessment Mission were shared, with recommendations for improving logistics, reporting, and communication in the upcoming mission. Emphasis was placed on collaboration, transparency, and timely accreditation.

The workshop concluded with discussions on optimizing communication channels and fostering collaboration among focal points for the 2024 Election Assessment Mission.

These insights and recommendations aim to enhance electoral observation practices and promote transparency and integrity in the European Union's electoral processes.

The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.