OSCE/ODIHR presents recommendations from final report on 2012 general elections in the United States

Ambassador Janez Lenarčič, the Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), was in Washington DC from 21 to 23 May 2013 to present the final report of the Limited Election Observation Mission for last year’s general elections in the United States.

The report’s findings and recommendations were presented to representatives from the State Department, the Justice Department, the Federal Election Commission, the Election Assistance Commission, the National Association of Secretaries of State, and other government agencies and civil society organizations.  

Lenarčič welcomed the expressed intention of the authorities to address the shortcomings identified in the report.

“While noting that the elections were highly competitive and enjoyed broad public confidence, the report also recommends steps to bring the electoral process closer in line with OSCE commitments,” he said. “Our Office is always ready, upon request, to provide support and expertise in the implementation of such recommendations.”

Among the report’s recommendations are that consideration should be given to providing full representation rights in Congress for citizens who reside in the District of Columbia and United States territories, and that the restrictions of voting rights for prisoners and ex-prisoners should be reviewed.

The report also recommends a review of existing measures to register voters, measures to increase the transparency of campaign financing, and the support of a national body with sufficient resources to provide guidance on election administration.

The report also highlights that legislation should guarantee access in all states to international observers invited by the United States authorities, to ensure full compliance with OSCE commitments.