OSCE/ODIHR final report on former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s early parliamentary elections recommends continued and inclusive electoral reform
The final report on the 11 December early parliamentary elections in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) recommends further review of the legal framework, to be conducted in a public procedure after consultations among all relevant stakeholders.
While the report, published on 28 February 2017, says that the parties were generally able to campaign freely and fundamental freedoms were respected, it recommends as a priority that authorities and political parties consider more resolute steps to ensure that pressure is not applied on public-sector employees, political activists or others to attend campaign events or vote in a particular way. It further notes that any instances and allegations of pressure and intimidation should be thoroughly and effectively investigated and prosecuted by authorities in a timely manner.
Noting concerns that the State Election Commission often met in private working sessions, the report recommends that all its sessions be public and that decisions be published on its website. The report further recommends the Commission review all complaints and appeals in an impartial manner, free from political considerations.
While pointing out that the review of the voter register somewhat improved its accuracy, the report notes that this process left legal and structural flaws in the maintenance of the register unaddressed. The report recommends that the register be updated through a co-ordinated and sustainable effort by the institutions in charge, according to clearly defined responsibilities and procedures. This process should be transparent and ensure access by political parties and civil society.
While a number of aspects concerning media coverage of election campaigns have been detailed in the Electoral Code, a need for continued substantial reform was highlighted. The report also suggests further strengthening the editorial independence of public media outlets from political influence.
Other recommendations include establishing detailed and timely mechanisms to provide effective redress for all eligible voters not found in the voter lists, for the review of candidate lists, and for the withdrawal and replacement of candidates on lists.
For election day observation, the ODIHR mission was joined by delegations from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and the European Parliament.