OSCE/ODIHR experts visit Albania for discussions on electoral reform as part of Western Balkans election support project
A team of experts from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) was in Albania from 4 to 8 December 2017 for a consultation and planning visit as part of ODIHR’s Support to Elections in the Western Balkans project.
The ODIHR team met with senior officials from the Ministries of Foreign and Internal Affairs and the Central Election Commission, as well as with representatives of the parliament, the public broadcaster, media regulatory bodies, civil society organizations and the international community, including the delegation of the European Union. The visit was organized with the support of the OSCE Presence in Albania.
In-depth consultations were held with key stakeholders to assess electoral reform needs, identify main actors and their roles and responsibilities, and encourage an open and consultative process. Discussions focused on election administration, voter lists and the role of media during campaigns.
“This was a successful visit, in the spirit of the long-standing co-operation between Albania and ODIHR. We look forward to continuing this with the Support to Elections in the Western Balkans project, which will assist Albania in improving its electoral legal framework and practices, taking into consideration ODIHR recommendations,” said Richard Lappin, Deputy Head of the ODIHR Elections Department.
Following the visit, the ODIHR experts will develop a strategic plan to ensure that the project’s activities complement, rather than duplicate, those of other electoral assistance providers.
This visit was the third of six – one to each of the six beneficiaries. The project is funded by the European Union and the Austrian Development Agency.
All OSCE participating States have committed themselves to promptly follow up on ODIHR election assessments and recommendations. ODIHR has consistently supported the effective follow-up of recommendations, and the 2016 Handbook on the Follow-up of Electoral Recommendations outlines ODIHR’s approach in this important area.