OSCE voices support for electoral reform in Armenia

YEREVAN, 19 April 2006 - The Head of the OSCE Office in Yerevan, Ambassador Vladimir Pryakhin, members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of the Council of Europe and the United Nations Offices in Armenia were today briefed on the on-going electoral reform in Armenia by the Chairman of the National Assembly, Arthur Baghdasaryan.

Ambassador Pryakhin welcomed the assurances by the Speaker of the country's determination to reform the electoral process, saying: "While recognising the need for improvements in legislation and administrative procedures, we stress that political will remains a core prerequisite for ensuring democratic conduct of elections. We hope the shortcomings of the past will not be repeated."

He also underlined the readiness of the international community to provide assistance as indicated in the 9 March statement by Ambassadors of the OSCE participating States and the heads of intergovernmental organizations in Yerevan. "While the international community is willing to help, only the Armenian authorities can assure a successful outcome."

In particular, the international community representatives stated that they would be ready to contribute to the electoral reform process by assisting with the training of election commission members, expertise on amendments to the electoral code, improving voter lists, and promoting public awareness of the procedures for a free and fair election.

"I hope the Armenian authorities will engage civil society and the media in ensuring that the forthcoming elections constitute a unifying process between the people and those who govern them," added Ambassador Pryakhin.